…as long as Armed Forces keep their ‘eyes on the ball’
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has assured that the prospect of a safe and secure Nigeria is in sight as long as the Armed Forces continue to collectively keep their ‘eyes on the ball’ in getting the job done.
Air Marshal Abubakar, who spoke on Monday during a Christmas luncheon organized for the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, also emphasised that aside from kinetic approach to curbing the current security challenges confronting the country, the synergy of efforts drawn from a whole-of-society approach remains the best approach in winning the hearts and minds of Nigerians and so speedily defeating the threats posed by terrorists and other non-state actors.
Abubakar’s assurances come as Nigeria has been in the throes of long-running insecurity in many parts of the country, from insurgency and banditry in the north to kidnapping for ransom, ritual killings, and militant agitations in the south.
He noted that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), on its part, has continued to engage with societal groups within the areas of operation through medical outreaches and welfare advocacies, stating that under his watch, NAF personnel at the frontlines have been continually reminded and trained on the Law of Armed Conflict, Rules of Engagement, and strict observance of human rights in line with the United Nations Charter on Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Similarly, pilots, engineers and other technicians have been availed of several safety management lessons and techniques to minimize risks associated with ongoing air operations.
A statement signed by NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, said the Chief of Air Staff also took stock of the efforts of the Air Component, alongside the Land and Maritime Components and concluded that there were good reasons to celebrate.
“In the last 6 months, we have all been witnesses to how your combined efforts alongside our sister services have decimated scores of terrorist leaders, their foot soldiers as well as their structures and logistics. Through these efforts, the unfettered freedom of movement that these criminals once enjoyed has been denied or reduced to the barest minimum. Your efforts have also led to the surrendering of several terrorist as well as their families, an indication the end may soon be in sight,” Air Marshal Abubakar said.
“I cannot tell you enough how much the entire nation appreciates your commitment and sacrifices and there is no iota of doubt that your selfless acts of courage and bravery as well as your unwavering dedication and service to our nation have afforded our citizens the opportunity to peacefully celebrate and enjoy this festive moment. We are indeed proud and appreciative of your gallant efforts and your devotion to duty remains a beacon of hope for all Nigerians,” he said.
Reminding the troops of the essence of Christmas, he said the season goes beyond mere merrymaking and festivities but one to “express love, show compassion, renew our hopes, and embrace our role as our brothers’ keepers”.
“The story of Christmas, rooted in humble beginnings in a manger, serves as a powerful lesson that even in the most modest circumstances, the spark of hope can be ignited. This hope is the essence of our fight against insurgency, terrorism and all forms of criminality,” he said.
The Borno State governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar.
Other attendees included the Shehu of Borno, represented by Aji Sudan of Borno, Alhaji Mohammed Nur Makinta; the Director Air Force at the Ministry of Defence, as well as the Theatre Commander OPHK and other senior military officers.
