The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to countering emerging security threats and protecting lives in Kebbi State and the broader North-West region.
Abubakar made this declaration during an operational assessment visit to Kebbi on Sunday, where he inspected key military facilities, held discussions with security chiefs, and met with Governor Mohammed Idris.
The visit was detailed in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information for NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, issued in Abuja on Sunday. Abubakar described Kebbi as “strategically critical” to Nigeria’s security due to its international borders with Benin and Niger, as well as its vast rural terrain.
He expressed satisfaction with the operational readiness of NAF platforms and pledged to intensify intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions while praising the collaboration among security agencies in the state.
“What affects Kebbi affects the entire North-West and, by extension, the peace and stability of our nation,” Abubakar stated. “Our commitment is clear: we will locate and root out all criminal elements threatening the peace and safety of law-abiding citizens. Nigeria must be secure for development to thrive.”
He assured that NAF assets were well-positioned to respond swiftly across the state, emphasizing, “Our platforms are well-positioned and capable of reaching every part of the state swiftly. Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations will be intensified.”
The CAS also commended the joint efforts of other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police, Department of State Services, and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.
“I commend the dedication of our colleagues in the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Police, Department of State Services, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and others. Their tireless efforts are making a difference, and we will continue to support them with air power and strategic coordination,” he said.
In his remarks, Governor Idris lauded the NAF and other security agencies for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Kebbi. He noted that despite emerging threats and the complex security landscape in the North-West, Kebbi had remained relatively peaceful due to the vigilance and sacrifices of security personnel.
“We are fully committed to working hand in hand with our security institutions to ensure Kebbi remains a bastion of peace and stability,” the governor affirmed.
