No sanctuary for criminals, Air Force will hunt down terrorists, kidnappers — CAS Aneke

By Kingsley Omonobi

BAUCHI — The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, has warned that criminals threatening innocent citizens and terrorising communities across the country will find no safe haven, insisting that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) remains fully committed to eliminating security threats nationwide.

Aneke stated that the Air Force would continue to intensify training, deployment and operational readiness to confront terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal elements wherever they operate.

“Those who threaten innocent citizens, terrorize communities and undermine the peace of our nation must understand that there will be no sanctuary for criminality. Our resolve is unwavering, and our commitment to protecting Nigerians remains absolute,” he said.

The Air Chief spoke on Saturday at the Regiment Training Centre Annex (RTCA), Bauchi, during the final physical fitness test for trainees of Course 13/2026 Special Forces.

He said the evolving security situation in the country required highly trained and mission-ready personnel capable of responding decisively to emerging threats.

According to him, the Nigerian Air Force is strengthening its operational capacity through rigorous and realistic Special Forces training designed to enhance counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and internal security operations.

Aneke charged personnel to remain disciplined and resolute in the discharge of their duties, stressing that the Force would continue to equip and deploy capable officers to confront security challenges across all theatres of operation.

He noted that the final physical fitness test formed a critical part of the selection process for Special Forces trainees, designed to assess endurance, resilience, discipline and combat readiness.

The Commandant of RTCA Bauchi, Squadron Leader Edeama Lawrence Akpan, said the exercise ensures that only candidates who meet the required physical and mental standards proceed in the programme.

He explained that Special Forces personnel must be prepared to operate under difficult and hostile environments where success depends on stamina, mental toughness and commitment.

The Nigerian Air Force said the exercise reflects its broader commitment to building a highly capable force prepared to support ongoing military operations and national security objectives.

It added that sustained investment in training and professional standards remains central to producing personnel capable of responding effectively to Nigeria’s security challenges.

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