During a visit to the Air Component in Katsina and Sokoto States on November 18, 2024, the Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD), Dr. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, praised the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its steadfast commitment to fighting insecurity and ceremoniously launched a revitalized air campaign under Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
The NAF’s operational readiness and crucial role in combating insurgency and banditry in Northwest Nigeria were commended by the HMOD. He emphasized how their efforts were clearly having an effect, pointing out that farmers were returning to their fields, kids were attending school, and businesses in once difficult areas were reopening. Dr. Badaru said, “Your efforts are restoring peace to vulnerable communities, and your bravery and professionalism inspire Nigerians.”
Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s direction, the Federal Government is dedicated to bolstering the military, the Minister underlined. He mentioned recent expenditures on state-of-the-art aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, which have greatly improved the capabilities of the NAF.
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), thanked the Minister for his visit and mentioned how it improved soldier morale. He reiterated the NAF’s commitment to President Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief, saying, “Your leadership rekindles our fighting spirit and motivates us to remain relentless in restoring peace and stability.”
The visit included inspections, talks with field commanders, and operational briefings before expert NAF pilots performed a stunning fly-past. The HMOD also praised the deployment of cutting-edge technology and intelligence to destroy bandit strongholds, highlighting the vital role that air power plays in defending Nigeria’s citizens and territorial integrity.
This visit demonstrates NAF’s ongoing contributions to national security and unity while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to bringing peace back to the Northwest.
