Minister of Defence Calls for Intensified Airforce Operations to Defeat Terrorism

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has urged the Nigerian Airforce (NAF) to ramp up the deployment of its advanced platforms in the fight against banditry and terrorism, declaring that “it’s time to end it.”

Speaking during an operational visit to the Air Component of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA in Katsina State on Monday, November 18, 2024, the Minister lauded the courage and dedication of the air warriors.

He described them as “beacons of hope, courage, and resilience” whose efforts continue to inspire Nigerians.

“Farmers Are Returning, Schools Are Reopening”
Highlighting the impact of the Airforce’s efforts, Badaru noted that their operations are creating visible positive changes. “Farmers are gradually returning to their farms, schools are reopening, businesses are picking up, and Nigerians can now sleep peacefully,” he said.

Reassuring the troops of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering support, Badaru emphasized the provision of cutting-edge military equipment, including state-of-the-art aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.

He cited the recently inducted T129 Attack Helicopters as game-changers in Nigeria’s counterterrorism operations.

“We Must Synergize for Victory”

The Minister urged the Airforce to enhance collaboration with ground forces and other stakeholders to ensure maximum impact.

“You are key to this fight, and we must put our acts together to end this war. Synergize with the ground forces to fully utilize these combat enablers,” Badaru stated.

During his visit, the Minister also traveled to Sokoto to assess the combat readiness of NAF platforms and inspect the proposed site for the permanent base of the newly established Airforce component against banditry and terrorism at Sokoto Airport.

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, commended the Minister’s servant leadership and strategic direction.

He expressed confidence in the T129 Attack Helicopters, which he described as transformative for NAF’s operational capabilities.
“These platforms send a strong message to those who think they can destabilize our nation,” he said.

Badaru’s visit underscores the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to ending insecurity, with a focus on strategic deployment and synergy among security forces to restore lasting peace across Nigeria.