The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed more air assets to the Air Component of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), a joint military task force operating in North Central Nigeria, particularly in Benue State, as part of efforts to strengthen security and restore peace in the region.
This was disclosed in a statement on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, who noted that the deployment demonstrates the Force’s renewed commitment to supporting ground operations and reassuring communities affected by insecurity.
To assess the progress of the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, visited the Tactical Air Command Headquarters in Makurdi, Benue State. During the visit, he held a strategic meeting with top military officials including the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and representatives of the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira, along with commanders of the air and maritime components of OPWS.
According to the CAS, the newly deployed air assets have been fully integrated into ongoing operations, providing real-time intelligence, surveillance, and precision strike support. He emphasized that NAF aircraft continue to conduct armed reconnaissance, close air support, and targeted missions across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States.
“These joint air and ground efforts have led to the dismantling of militia camps, bandit enclaves, and criminal hideouts, reinforcing our commitment to safeguarding civilian lives and maintaining national security,” Abubakar stated.
He added that the deployment aligns with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to stabilize the Middle Belt region and restore public confidence.
Meanwhile, the military has denied allegations of involvement in the recent killings in Yelwata, Benue State. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, made the clarification, stating that the Nigerian Armed Forces were not responsible for the massacre.
Supporting the CDS, Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, said in a statement that there is no credible evidence linking the military to the incident. He stressed that such claims of internal sabotage are unfounded and divert attention from the root causes of violence in the Middle Belt—land disputes, grazing rights, ethnic tensions, and resource competition.
Gusau reiterated the military’s dedication to civilian protection and the rule of law. He urged communities to cooperate with security agencies, avoid shielding criminals, and work collectively to build peace.
“The military remains committed to its mandate of defending law-abiding citizens and ensuring lasting peace across the region,” he said.
Nzubechukwu Eze
