Nigerian Air Force Improves On Combat Readiness

In line with the Chief of the Air Staff’s vision of sustaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base Maiduguri, on 18 June, successfully conducted its Small Arms Range Classification Exercise to enhance the combat proficiency and operational effectiveness of personnel.

The exercise underscores the NAF’s commitment to continuous training as a critical enabler of mission success in ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.

The Deputy Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, who attended as the Special Guest of Honour, commended personnel for their discipline, professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty. He urged them to sustain the highest standards of combat readiness in confronting evolving security threats and safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity. Earlier, the Air Component Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore MB Ahmed, described the exercise as a vital component of the NAF’s continuous training programme, stressing that regular weapons proficiency training remains essential to ensuring personnel are prepared to effectively execute assigned missions in support of national security objectives.

Also speaking, the Commander, 105 Composite Group, Group Captain KO Nwachukwu, reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to strengthening base defence capabilities through continuous training, capacity development and adherence to professional standards.

The exercise featured live-fire assessments to evaluate marksmanship, weapon handling and battlefield preparedness, attracting senior military officers, representatives of the Borno State Government and heads of security agencies.

Beyond enhancing individual proficiency, the exercise reinforces the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to building a highly capable and mission-ready force, ensuring its personnel remain prepared to deliver decisive air power in seamless synergy with surface forces during ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.

It further underscores the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s integrated approach to combating insecurity through enhanced jointness, operational excellence and sustained collaboration in pursuit of lasting peace, security and stability across the country.