Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has commended personnel of the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai and their land counterparts for the successful rescue of abducted students and teachers when terrorists attack Government Day Secondary School, Lassa in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.

 

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 air and ground troops mobilised to the area for a coordinated search and rescue operation. Search for others continue.

 

Aneke 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.

 

He 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.

 

One of the rescued victims, Mr Paul Namaske, Vice Principal of Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, said 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.

 

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, Aneke 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 the defence of 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 aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the country.