Minister of Defence, Dr. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has lauded the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its formidable air power capabilities, emphasizing their crucial role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the Air War College (AWC) Course 9/2023 graduation ceremony held in Makurdi, Benue State, the Minister commended the NAF for its contributions to international humanitarian efforts and its role in upholding national security.
Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, relayed the Minister’s remarks, highlighting NAF’s goodwill and credibility through its humanitarian support for the United Nations, African Union, and other African nations.
The Minister, represented by Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, emphasized the importance of the AWC’s curriculum in promoting proactive operational planning and management, critical to national security and socio-economic development.
Dr. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar also praised the dedication of NAF personnel, recognizing their gallant contributions to ongoing joint operations, particularly in counterinsurgency and counter-terrorism efforts.
He stated, “I must also place on record that the NAF has been playing significant and crucial roles in the ongoing counterinsurgency and counter-terrorism operations where its officers and airmen have performed gallantly.”
In a supportive address, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father (Dr.) Hyacinth Alia, acknowledged the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) for their peace restoration efforts and expressed gratitude to the NAF for enhancing security in Benue State.
Governor Alia stated, “The presence of the NAF in Makurdi gives the people of Benue State a sense of security and an assurance of their safety.”
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), highlighted the significance of the AWC’s role in human capacity development for the NAF.
He announced plans to induct additional aircraft platforms by year-end, reinforcing training, air power capabilities, and projection. These platforms include multi-role helicopters, surveillance aircraft, and attack helicopters, reflecting the government’s commitment to equipping the NAF for national security.
CAS Abubakar credited the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for its unwavering support in equipment procurement and training, enabling consistent operations to counter contemporary threats.
He stressed the importance of institutions like the AWC in promoting jointness and synergy in ongoing military operations, emphasizing their role in optimizing combat strength.
The Commandant of the College, Air Vice Marshal Abayomi Kehinde, highlighted the harmonization of the curricula of the Army, Navy, and Air War Colleges to promote jointness.
He noted that participants from the three war colleges converge annually for a joint operational planning exercise called “EXERCISE SKYLOCK,” promoting inter-service synergy, interoperability, and multi-agency approaches to warfare and crisis management.
The AWC Course 9/2023 graduated 15 officers, including a Cameroonian officer, two Nigerian Army Officers, and two Naval Officers, emphasizing the College’s tri-Service and multi-national nature.
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