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By Emmanuel Daudu

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has stated that as a Service subservient to the political class, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) state of readiness and preparedness remains paramount and must never be in doubt. This, according to him, was in line with NAF’s constitutional responsibility to be ready to perform tasks that may be assigned to it by Nigeria’s political leaders.

Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet,
Director of Public Relations and Information Nigerian Air Force, in the press release he signed on 10 August 2023, disclosed that Air Marshal Abubakar stated this at his maiden meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding and NAF operational commanders held earlier today, 10 August 2023, at NAF Headquarters Abuja. He however warned that even as the Service remains in the state of readiness, personnel must continue to remain apolitical, patriotic and conduct themselves in the most professional and disciplined manner. The CAS had earlier described the contemporary operating environment within the shores of Nigeria and across the West African sub-Region as diffuse and complex, with consequences on the political climate of the entire Region.

Speaking further, Air Marshal Abubakar had commended NAF operational commanders for their commitment in tackling the current security challenges facing the Nation. According to him, “I am particularly glad about the recent heightened level of air operations across all our joint operations theatres which has seen us record tremendous outcomes.” He however observed that while so much has been achieved, a lot still needed to be done to ensure the NAF fully attained its set objectives. He then implored the commanders to ensure they utilize the opportunity of the meeting to interact frankly and objectively while proffering solutions and strategies that will translate to actionable consequences on the ground.

Earlier, the CAS had unveiled his command philosophy which he said would enable NAF personnel having a clear understanding of his focus on the future direction of the Service. In framing his philosophy, Air Marshal Abubakar stated that he took cognizance of the current state of NAF fleet which has been enhanced with over 70 new aircraft types with more being expected as well as the current security environment. According to the CAS, “Only a carefully thought-out strategy guided by a strong philosophy can adequately situate the NAF to address the Nation’s security challenges.” Consequently, the CAS revealed that his command philosophy intends to, “To transform the NAF into an agile and resilient force that effectively meets the airpower demands of national security in all operational environments. To translate his philosophy into tangible gains on ground, the CAS stated that he will leverage on technology, innovation, lessons learnt as well as the personnel and fleets at his disposal to effectively checkmate the security threats confronting the nation. These are aside the 5 key enablers that he believed will drive his philosophy to fruition.

On the sideline of the meeting, the CAS also handed out brand new Hilux Toyota vehicles to 7 Air Warrant Officers in honour of their selfless services to the NAF, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the nation at large, having attained the pinnacle of their careers. According to Air Marshal Abubakar, “This gesture was in line with one of the key enablers of my Philosophy to, ‘Maintain a highly motivated force by enhancing welfare and infrastructural renewal.’ He then hoped that the gesture would spur others to work harder and aspire towards contributing their best to the growth of the NAF.

The meeting brought together all Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding as well as Commanders of Direct Reporting Units and Operation Units. Issues germane to enhancing ongoing air operations as well as welfare of NAF personnel are tops on the agenda.

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali, today 10 August 2023 visited Sector 3 Monguno in Nigeria to familiarise and assess the progress of the operations against Boko Haram terrorists.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, Military Public Information Officer – N’djemena in a press release he signed on 10 August 2023, said, during his visit, the Force Commander commended the sector for its exceptional efforts in achieving the MNJTF mandate, praising the troops for their dedication and hard work.

Emphasizing the importance of remaining vigilant and steadfast in their mission, Major General Ali charged the troops to continue their efforts to eliminate the remaining Boko Haram terrorists. He highlighted that the recent mass surrender of Boko Haram fighters is an indication that the war against the insurgent group is nearing its end. The Force Commander advised the officers to maintain a positive mindset while carrying out their duties, stating that their efforts have significantly contributed to the progress made in the fight against the terrorists.

The Force Commander expressed his gratitude to the “Civilian Joint Task Force” for their invaluable support. He recognized the crucial role played by the local communities in providing vital information and assistance in the fight against Boko Haram. The Force Commander stressed that the cooperation of the civilian population is essential in bringing an end to the reign of terror caused by the terrorist group.

While welcoming the Force Commander to the Sector, the Sector 3 Commander, Major General Peter Okoye thanks the MNJTF Headquarters for its support and prompt response to the sector’s requests.

He assured the Force Commander of his troops readiness to dominate its Area of Responsibility in order to clear remnant terrorists marauding in the area.

As the visit concluded, Major General Ali assured the troops that their hard work and sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. He pledged to continue providing them with the necessary resources and support to carry out their tasks effectively. The visit of the Force Commander served as a morale boost for the troops, reaffirming their commitment to eliminating the remnants of the Boko Haram terrorist group and restoring peace and stability to the region.

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar has reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to bolster the serviceability rate of its operable platforms to meet current and emerging security challenges.

According to Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information Nigerian Air Force, in a press release he signed on 9 August 2023, Air Marshal Abubakar stated this today while addressing officers and men during his maiden operational visit to Air Training Command and co-located NAF units in Kaduna. The CAS noted that the Service would enhance resilience in the conduct of its air operations within a joint and multi-agency setting. According to him, “To be resilient in our operations, we must proactively address maintenance and logistics support for all our fleet. We all have a part to play in ensuring that the NAF surpasses the current average serviceability of over 78 per cent”, he said.

The CAS commended the efforts of NAF personnel participating in Operation Whirl Punch for upholding the mandate of bringing activities of criminal elements to an end noting that their sacrifices and efforts are making positive impacts in parts of the North West and North Central geopolitical zones including the Federal Capital Territory. While unveiling his command philosophy which is “To transform the NAF into an agile and resilient force that effectively meets the airpower demands of national security in all operational environments”, Air Marshal Abubakar charged all personnel to key into the philosophy. He stated further that he would leverage on technology, innovation, lessons learnt as well as the personnel and fleets to effectively checkmate the security threats confronting the country.

On safety, the CAS charged personnel to imbibe a safety culture and persistently abide by all safety standards and regulations to prevent mishaps in all air operations noting that accidents occur due to a chain of events and therefore they should always be vigilant to break the chain. In the area of manpower development, Air Marshal Abubakar stated that overseas and local training would be deliberate and targeted to address deficiencies in needed skills and capabilities. Course nominations he said would be merit-based to ensure that only the most qualified are selected to give the NAF value for money.

Speaking about welfare, Air Marshal Abubakar assured personnel that all their entitlements would be promptly paid.

He further assured that he would intervene in priority areas to make their training and operations more efficient and ensure that personnel and their families live more comfortably considering the economic situation in the country. He charged them to embrace efficient management of scarce resources in their care. His administration, he noted would identify and prioritize the most critical needs and objectives and allocate resources where they can have the greatest impact.

Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Special Forces on night patrol on 6 August 2023, near Birnin Gwari in Kaduna State, rescued 7 kidnapped victims comprising 6 females and a male, in the early hours of 6 August 2023. 

According to Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information                              Nigerian Air Force, in a press release he signed on 7 August 2023, the female victims on interrogation, revealed that they were kidnapped from Paikoro in Niger State while the lone male victim stated that he was picked up against his will from Rijau in Niger State. On sighting the troops, the terrorists abandoned their victims and fled into a nearby forest. The victims were subsequently taken to the NAF Medical facility at Birnin Gwari for review and subsequently released, less the male victim who is still being observed.

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar has since commended the efforts of the troops while calling for intensified efforts towards ensuring all areas within Kaduna State and environs are free of terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements. 

Troops of the Joint Task Force Northwest Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) have continued to record more successes, as they rescued 5 kidnapped victims, neutralized scores of armed bandits and recovered arms and ammunition.

In a recent development,  Troops of Sector 1  OPHD in Zamfara State responded to a distress call about armed bandits kidnapped activities and robbery along Tsafe – Gusau highway between Tazame and Tabbani villages under Bungudu LGA of Zamfara State. Troops swiftly moved to the scene and on arrival a gun duel ensued with the bandits. However, due to  superior firepower and tactical abilities, the troops forced the Bandits to flee and abandoned the kidnapped victims. The victims who were passengers and commuters were all rescued unhurt.

Similarly, troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Garin Hausawa received information that large numbers of armed bandits  were sighted in Madobiya village in Danko- Wasagu LGA of Kebbi state, which prompted the troops to mobilized to the village and due to troops aggressive posture, armed bandits abandoned the kidnap victims and fled. However, 3 kidnapped victims were rescued  and were handed over to their families.

Relatedly, Troops of Special Forces deployed in Sokoto state while on routine patrol along Gundumi and Marnona road came in contact with armed bandits at Gundumi Village. After the encounter, one armed Bandits was neutralized while others escaped with gunshot wounds. Items recovered at the scene include; 1 AK-47 Rifle, 1 AK-47 Magazine loaded with 7.62 special ammunition.

Also, on the 6th of August 2023, troops of Sector 3 in Sokoto state while on a fighting patrol received information about bandits’ incursion into Manu village, the troops swiftly moved to the village. On arrival at Mani village, the armed bandits opened a high volume of fire in order to scare the troops. However, the gallant troops resisted and engaged them  with superior fire which forced the bandits to flee in disarray. Items recovered from the bandits include; 2 Motorcycles, a Mobile phone, blankets and other Engineering equipment.

In another development, acting of credible intelligence, troops of Forward Operating Base Raka while on patrol arrested a suspected Bandit at Gigane District of Gwadabawa LGA of Sokoto state. Preliminary investigation revealed that the arrested bandit and his syndicate had been terrorizing the community. The arrested bandit is currently undergoing investigation.

In the same vein, on the 6th of August 2023, troops of Sector 2 OPHD deployed in Katsina state while on a routine patrol along Jibia, Magama and Maidabaru road in Jibia LGA of Katsina state came in contact with large numbers of Armed bandits.

After an encounter, 3  armed bandits were neutralized while others fled with gunshot wounds. However, 2 gallant soldiers sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving treatment in a military medical facility.

The Commander of the Joint Task Force Northwest OPHD Major General Godwin Mutkut has commended the troops efforts and charged them not to rest until all bandits’ enclaves and hideouts are cleared. He assured that no bandits enclave will be left untouched in his areas of operational responsibility.

General Mutkut urged good citizens to be very vigilant especially as the Bandits are now operating during the hours of darkness and poor visibility to carry out their heinous acts