The Muhammadu Buhari administration is working on strengthening the defence potential of Nigeria
- The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has since keyed into this project
- NAF's focus on training its personnel and expanding its units has given it an edge over other armed forces
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Wednesday, July 26 commissioned the 213 Forward Operating Base (FOB) and the Quick Response Wing (QRW) in Katsina state, thus formally marking the beginning of operations in the 2 units.
While commissioning the new units, Katsina state governor, Aminu Bello Masari, lauded the decision of the federal government in establishing the NAF units in Katsina. He stated that NAF’s presence in Katsina was long overdue considering its strategic importance, being a border state.
He expressed his belief that the presence of the NAF in Katsina would go a long way in complementing the efforts of the Nigerian Army troops in boosting security in the state. He therefore requested members of the NAF’s host communities to give maximum support to the NAF.
The governor hailed the NAF for their achievements under CAS Abubakar. Photo credit: NAF
Governor Masari was also full of praises for the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, who he acknowledged had done so much to reposition the NAF as one of the best air forces in Africa.
He particularly commended the standard of buildings on the NAF bases, saying that they indicated a leader that cares for the welfare of his personnel, adding, “the other arms of the Armed Forces should emulate the NAF”.
The event was attended by dignatires from all works of life. Photo credit: NAF
In his remarks at the occasion, the CAS stated that the 213 FOB would accommodate some platforms and specialized equipment whenever the need arises.
He added that the regiment wings in Katsina and Daura, with their specially trained personnel, would provide the necessary protection for NAF personnel and equipment, in addition to responding in aid to civil authority, when called upon to do so.
One of the buildings in a unit. Photo credit: NAF
He then charged the NAF personnel to conduct themselves professionally and treat all citizens with respect and dignity.
The event happened on the same day the NAF deployed one of its armed helicopters to Takum in Taraba state to give support to the ground forces in the effort to maintain peace in the area.
NAIJ.com gathered that the deployment of the helicopter was also to deter warring communities within the area from further engaging in violent activities.
The helicopter is already carrying out armed reconnaissance missions within the Mambilla Plateau and environs.
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