The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has assured Nigerians that efforts to secure the safe release of abducted Oyo school victims remain a top priority, reaffirming its commitment to ongoing security operations aimed at rescuing those held captive. The assurance was given on Saturday by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, during the Nigerian Air Force second quarter 2026 route march exercise held in Abuja.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Abdullahi, Aneke said the Air Force remains actively engaged in supporting security operations across the country and will continue to collaborate with other security agencies to protect lives and property.
According to the Air Chief, the military remains focused on advancing national security objectives through coordinated operations and inter-agency cooperation.
He stressed that efforts to rescue the abducted Oyo school victims are part of broader commitments by the armed forces to address security challenges and ensure the safety of citizens. Aneke noted that the Nigerian Air Force would continue working closely with relevant agencies to strengthen operational effectiveness and support rescue missions wherever necessary.
The Air Chief said the route march exercise reflects the Air Force’s emphasis on physical fitness, health, and overall wellness as critical elements of military preparedness.
According to him, personnel who maintain strong physical and mental health are better equipped to meet the demands of modern military operations and contribute effectively to national security efforts. He explained that the exercise was designed not only to improve physical endurance but also to strengthen teamwork, camaraderie, esprit de corps, and the professional bonds necessary for effective service delivery.
Aneke urged officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian personnel to embrace healthy lifestyles and regular physical activity as part of their daily routines. He disclosed that all personnel had been directed to actively participate in weekly Wednesday sporting activities across Nigerian Air Force bases nationwide.
According to him, the initiative is intended to promote fitness, encourage social cohesion among personnel, and create opportunities for identifying talented athletes who could represent the Armed Forces of Nigeria in future sporting competitions. The programme, he added, would also help discourage activities capable of distracting personnel from their professional responsibilities.
The Air Chief expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continued support toward the development and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Air Force. He also commended senior officers, officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian staff for their commitment and participation in the route march exercise. Aneke further praised the commander of 053 Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force Camp, and his team for successfully organising the event.
