CAS Hails Joint Forces for Daring Lassa School Rescue, Orders Relentless Offensive Against Terrorists
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has commended troops of the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI and their ground counterparts for the successful rescue of students and teachers abducted during the recent terrorist attack on Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, directing security forces to sustain the offensive against terrorist groups.
The Air Chief described the rescue operation as a clear demonstration of the effectiveness of intelligence-driven joint military operations, saying the seamless integration of air and ground forces remains critical to protecting innocent Nigerians and degrading terrorist capabilities.
Air Marshal Aneke particularly praised the rapid deployment of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets, supported by timely precision air operations, which disrupted the terrorists’ escape route and enabled ground troops to engage the fleeing insurgents, leading to the successful rescue of the kidnapped victims.
According to one of the rescued victims, Mr. Paul Namaske, Vice Principal of Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, the arrival of Nigerian military aircraft threw the terrorists into confusion and forced them to abandon their captives.
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“The aircraft’s arrival caused the terrorists to scatter, creating the opportunity for the abducted teachers and students to escape as the troops advanced on their position,” Namaske recounted.
The CAS said the victim’s testimony further validates the decisive role of air power in modern counter-terrorism operations, particularly when synchronised with well-coordinated ground manoeuvres.
He commended the courage, professionalism and resilience displayed by the troops involved in the operation, noting that their swift response prevented what could have been a more devastating outcome.
Air Marshal Aneke also paid glowing tribute to the soldier of Operation HADIN KAI and the member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) who lost their lives during the rescue mission, describing their sacrifice as the ultimate price paid in defence of the nation.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved families, assuring them that the bravery and selflessness of the fallen heroes would remain a source of inspiration to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign, the CAS pledged continued collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and other security agencies to sustain coordinated operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring lasting peace and security across the country.
The successful Lassa rescue operation adds to a series of recent operational gains recorded by Operation HADIN KAI, underscoring the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led joint operations in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.