Emmanuel Daudu
In a significant move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s military response to growing security challenges, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has called on graduates of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Air War Course 10/2024 to embrace innovative and proactive approaches in dealing with the country’s complex security environment.
Speaking at the prestigious Air Force War College (AFWC) in Makurdi during the graduation ceremony, which marks a significant achievement in Nigeria’s defence sector, Badaru represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana emphasized the critical need for adaptable military leadership.
He highlighted the growing threat posed by violent non-state actors, asymmetric warfare, and the increasing demand for operational-level military leadership to address the nation’s diverse security threats.
The Minister acknowledged the exceptional role the Nigerian Air Force continues to play not just in domestic security, but also in international missions, particularly in airlift operations and humanitarian support.
“The NAF has become a crucial part of the nation’s efforts to maintain peace and security both within our borders and on the global stage.
The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is committed to ensuring that the NAF is fully equipped and ready to respond to any emerging security challenge,” Badaru assured.
With the successful completion of Air War Course 10/2024, the Minister expressed confidence in the graduating officers, noting their preparedness to take on leadership roles in ongoing operations across the country.
“You are now equipped with the tools to make critical, high-stakes decisions in times of crisis. The nation looks to you to uphold the values of professionalism and integrity as you join the leadership ranks of the Nigerian military.”
The ceremony, which brought together military top brass, defence stakeholders, and families of the graduates, serves as another step forward in the Nigerian Air Force’s mission to build a formidable force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Badaru’s charge to the graduates signals a renewed focus on innovative military strategies as Nigeria faces increasingly sophisticated threats from insurgents, bandits, and other non-state actors.
His remarks echo the broader strategy of the Tinubu administration in seeking to revitalize and rearm the nation’s defence apparatus.
The Defence Ministry reiterated its commitment to boosting support for the armed forces.
The Minister, underscored the government’s determination to provide the necessary resources, tools, and training for the military.
This will ensure that the forces remain ahead of the curve in combating threats and maintaining peace and security in Nigeria and beyond.
The graduation of these elite officers not only symbolizes individual accomplishment but also represents a larger strategic effort to combat the evolving threats to Nigeria’s national security.
Their skills will now be put to the test in various operational theatres across the country, from counter-insurgency efforts to counter-terrorism and peacekeeping missions.
This graduation marks a pivotal point in the fight against security challenges, with Nigeria’s military leadership poised to introduce innovative strategies that could shape the future of national defence.
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