Yemi Obafemi
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar has said the Nigerian Air Force will continue to provide all necessary support to tackle terrorists, Bandits and other enclaves of criminal elements as well as illegal refinery sites/illegal bunkering and sites.
Abubakar disclosed during a meeting while directing commanders Air Component Commanders of the various operational theatres in the country to sustain air assault on criminal activities.
In a statement by Director of NAF Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet. CASI urged the commanders to intensify efforts in eradicating criminal activities.
He said: “On the heels of significant successes recently recorded in various theaters of operations across the country, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar has issued a directive to Air Component Commanders, urging them to intensify their efforts in ongoing operations.
‘He made this call while addressing all Air Component Commanders during a virtual meeting held on 26 August 2024.
“In commending the Commanders for their outstanding performance, the CAS highlighted the critical role they have played in ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
“He noted that their dedication and tactical efforts have led to a series of successful missions, eliminating key terrorist leaders, disrupting activities of oil thieves and pipeline vandals, and safeguarding key national assets.
“The Service, and indeed the entire nation, are proud of your achievements. “Your relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to duty have not gone unnoticed, and the recent operational successes are a testament to your leadership and the professionalism of the men and women under your command.
“We must, however, continue to hit them hard until they succumb to our superior might.”
“We must not rest on our laurels” he said. “The security of our nation depends on our continued resolve and unwavering commitment. I charge you to intensify your efforts and push forward with even greater determination.
“The Nigerian Air Force will continue to provide all necessary support to ensure the success of our missions.”
CAF futher urged them to remain vigilant and to continue leveraging intelligence, precision strikes, and collaborative efforts with sister services to neutralize remaining threats.
“Recent air strikes targeting terrorists in Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna, as well as oil thieves in Rivers and Imo States, have earned commendation from the CAS and other well-meaning Nigerians.
“While these efforts are commendable, the Service remains committed to allocating even more resources across all theatres to restore peace across Nigeria, ensuring that citizens can pursue their lawful activities without fear for their lives or property,” he added.
