The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed additional air assets under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) to intensify efforts at restoring peace and security in Benue State and the wider North Central region.
This was revealed in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF.
According to Ejodame, the deployment of more air support is a strategic step to strengthen security operations on the ground and reassure communities battling the threats of banditry, kidnapping, and ongoing communal violence.
The move follows a recent escalation of violent attacks in Benue, which has led to loss of lives, displacement of residents, and heightened insecurity in rural areas.
Ejodame reiterated the Air Force’s commitment to national security, noting that the expanded aerial presence is intended to back up ground forces, increase surveillance, and ensure rapid response capabilities across conflict-prone zones in the region.
Operation Whirl Stroke is a joint military initiative launched to combat armed militias and criminal elements across Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, and Plateau states.
According to him, the visit included a high-level strategic engagement held on Tuesday, at the Headquarters Tactical Air Command, Makurdi.
Ejodame said the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; a representative of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Adm. Olusegun Ferreira; the Commander of OPWS; and the Maritime and Air Component Commanders, alongside other key stakeholders, were part of the meeting.
According to Ejodame, critical updates were provided on the current tempo of joint operations aimed at restoring lasting peace across the region.
In his remarks, the CAS revealed that the newly deployed air assets had been successfully integrated into ongoing operations, delivering real-time intelligence and precision targeting support.
He stated NAF aircraft had continued to conduct surveillance, armed reconnaissance, close air support, and precision strike missions with remarkable success.
Abubakar noted that the current deployment aligns with the Federal Government’s overarching mission to stabilise the Middle Belt region.
He highlighted the impact of recent coordinated air and ground operations across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, which have led to the dismantling of several militia camps, bandit enclaves, and criminal hideouts.
“These outcomes reinforce our unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives and supporting national peace-building initiatives.
“As long as peace is threatened, our resolve remains unshaken.
“The NAF will continue to deliver timely, decisive air support in synergy with sister services, ensuring the protection of lives and properties while advancing our mission of restoring peace to the Middle Belt and beyond,” he said.
The Service Chiefs jointly emphasised the importance of synergy among the armed forces and other security agencies, noting that jointness remains a cornerstone for operational success under Operation Whirl Stroke.
They reiterated that the ongoing operations are part of a broader goal to create a secure environment where residents can live and conduct their legitimate activities without fear.
