Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has commended the personnel of the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai and their land counterparts for the successful rescue of abducted students and teachers when terrorists attacked Government Day Secondary School, Lassa in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno.
This was contained in a statement made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Tuesday by the Spokesperson of the Service, Air Commodore. Ehimen Ejodame
According to the statement, the terrorists attacked the school on Monday, June 29, 2026, as the students were writing their NECO exams.
Ten of them and teachers were rescued as the air and ground troops mobilised to the area for a coordinated search and rescue operation. Search for others continues.
The Air Chief described the operation as a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-driven joint military operations in protecting innocent Nigerians and sustaining pressure on terrorist elements.
It added that the CAS particularly lauded the swift deployment of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets, alongside timely air support, which disrupted the terrorists’ movement and enabled ground troops to engage the fleeing insurgents and rescue the victims.
According to it, one of the rescued victims, Mr Paul Namaske, Vice Principal of Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, said that the arrival of the military aircraft forced the terrorists to scatter, allowing the abducted teachers and students to escape as troops advanced on the terrorists’ position.
It added that the CAS noted that the victim’s account further validates the critical role of air power in modern counter-terrorism operations, particularly when effectively integrated with ground manoeuvre forces.
While commending the courage, professionalism, and sacrifice of the troops involved in the operation, the CAS paid tribute to the gallant soldier of Operation Hadin Kai and the member of the Civilian Joint Task Force who paid the supreme sacrifice during the rescue mission.
He extended heartfelt condolences to their families and affirmed that their sacrifice will continue to inspire the Armed Forces of Nigeria in defending the nation.
The CAS further reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to working closely with sister Services and other security agencies to sustain ongoing operations to restore lasting peace and security across the country.