The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has underscored the strategic framework of Operation Savannah Shield, describing it as an intelligence-led mission designed with a robust and enduring structure that integrates both kinetic and non-kinetic lines of effort to deliver sustainable security outcomes.
General Oluyede made the remarks during the official flag-off of the operation in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, alongside the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, and other service chiefs.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Chief of the Air Staff emphasised that operational readiness must be sustained and not treated as a one-time accomplishment.
“Operational readiness is not a one-time achievement but a sustained culture. Platforms must be serviceable, intelligence actionable, and personnel must remain mission-focused at all times,” Air Marshal Aneke stated.
He assured personnel involved in the operation of continued support from Air Force Headquarters in the areas of logistics, training and welfare, stressing that these would further enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness in the field.
Operation Savannah Shield is expected to bolster counterterrorism and internal security efforts in Kwara State and adjoining areas, as part of broader national security initiatives.
Earlier, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their steadfast commitment to restoring peace and stability. He expressed appreciation for the launch of the operation, noting that residents of the state would “breathe a sigh of relief” with the renewed security push.
The governor pledged sustained collaboration between the state government and security agencies to consolidate the gains of the operation and ensure long-term peace in the state.
The dual engagements in Ilorin highlighted the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s unified resolve to intensify counterterrorism and internal security operations, not only in Kwara State but across the country.
Military authorities noted that the combination of intelligence-driven planning, coordinated joint operations and strengthened civil-military cooperation would form the backbone of Operation Savannah Shield as it unfolds.
