Defence Minister Flags Off Air Campaign, Lauds NAF’s Operational Readiness
In a bid to neutralize criminal elements and restore peace to vulnerable communities, the Minister of Defence, Dr. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON mni, has flagged off the reinvigorated air campaign under Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
The flag-off was symbolically conducted during Abubakar’s visit to the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA in Katsina and Sokoto States recently. The visit emphasized the need for operational readiness and sustained air superiority in the fight against banditry and insurgency in northwest Nigeria.
Contained in a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information at the Nigeria Air Force Headquarters, Air Commodore Olufola F. Akinboye, which was made available to the media, the Minister praised the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its dedication and successful execution of air interdiction campaigns.
“Your bravery and professionalism serve as an inspiration to the Nigerian people. We’re witnessing positive changes: farmers returning to farms, children back in school, businesses reopening, and Nigerians sleeping in peace.”
He acknowledged the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing NAF’s effectiveness. “Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, which has prioritized investments in advanced technologies and resources.”
The President, it stated, has provided state-of-the-art aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, boosting the capabilities of the NAF.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, thanked the Minister for his visit and support. “Your servant leadership inspires us. Your operational visits have heightened morale and renewed the fighting spirit of our troops.”
The CAS reaffirmed the NAF’s loyalty to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.
He also assured the nation of the NAF’s relentless determination to restore peace and stability to troubled areas.
“We understand that peace and stability are crucial for Nigeria’s prosperity. Rest assured, the NAF remains committed to safeguarding national unity and progress.”
The visit included inspections, discussions with field commanders, and briefings on the air campaign, as well as a breathtaking fly-past by daring young NAF fighter pilots. The HMOD praised the NAF’s use of intelligence and technology in striking bandit strongholds.
The visit further served as a morale booster, highlighting air power’s critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s citizenry and territorial integrity.
