The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has described airpower as a decisive advantage in counterterrorism operations following an operational assessment visit to the 303 Composite Group of the Nigerian Air Force> in Ilorin.

The visit came ahead of the formal flag-off of Operation Savannah Shield by the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, alongside other Service Chiefs.

Air Marshal Aneke said the Air Force's speed, reach, and precision capabilities provide a strategic edge in modern warfare.

"When intelligently applied, airpower becomes a decisive force multiplier in counterterrorism operations," he said.

During the inspection of aircraft, maintenance facilities, and mission support infrastructure, the CAS commended personnel for their professionalism and combat readiness.

"Operational readiness is not a one-time achievement; it is a sustained culture. Our platforms must be serviceable, intelligence actionable, and personnel mission-focused at all times," he added.

He assured troops of continued support in logistics, training, and welfare to enhance operational efficiency.

Addressing officers, airmen, and airwomen, Aneke emphasised the need to adapt to asymmetric threats and strengthen inter-agency cooperation.

Operation Savannah Shield was later inaugurated by the CDS, who explained that the mission is intelligence-driven and integrates kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to achieve lasting security outcomes.

Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq commended the Armed Forces, expressing confidence that residents would "sleep better" following the renewed security efforts.

Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force's commitment to sustained surveillance and rapid response operations to protect lives and property.