In a meeting held at Headquarters NAF, Abuja, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, highlighted the remarkable achievements of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) over the past year. With an unwavering determination to combat terrorism, insurgency, and other security threats, the CAS reaffirmed his commitment to intensify efforts in safeguarding the nation.
During the meeting, Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the need for the NAF to be proactive, recognizing the expectations of the Federal Government and Nigerian citizens. He stressed the urgency of establishing a peaceful, safe, and secure nation to foster prosperity.
Additionally, the CAS took a comprehensive look at the global and regional security landscape and its impact on Nigeria’s national security.
He expressed concern over the increase in coups d’état within the West African sub-region and the withdrawal of nations from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which pose negative consequences for regional security.
The CAS also highlighted the withdrawal of UN and Chad troops from Mali, as well as Niger Republic troops from the Multi-National Joint Task Force. These factors contribute to the security challenges in the Sahel Region, leading to an influx of weapons and terrorists into Nigeria.
Acknowledging these circumstances, the CAS emphasized the necessity for the NAF and other security agencies to be proactive in meeting the expectations of the Federal Government and Nigerian citizens.
Despite these threats, Air Marshal Abubakar commended the NAF for its strategic re-stratification and implementation of new air power measures over the past 12 months.
These measures have yielded significant progress in various operational areas, including the fight against insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and oil theft.
However, the CAS acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by Nigeria’s economic hardships, such as high youth unemployment, increasing inflation, and multi-dimensional poverty. These factors further complicate the security situation, compelling the NAF to adapt and improve its strategies continuously.
