The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) commitment to tackling emerging security threats and protecting lives in Kebbi State and the wider North-West.
Abubakar made the pledge on Sunday during an operational assessment visit to Kebbi, where he inspected military facilities, met with security chiefs, and held talks with Governor Mohammed Idris.
Describing Kebbi as “strategically critical” to Nigeria’s security due to its shared borders with Benin and Niger and its vast rural terrain, the Air Chief said the state’s stability was integral to peace in the entire North-West and the country.
“Our commitment is clear: we will locate and root out all criminal elements threatening the peace and safety of law-abiding citizens,” Abubakar said. “Nigeria must be secure for development to thrive.”
He expressed satisfaction with the readiness of NAF air platforms, pledging to intensify intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, and commended the collaboration between the Air Force, the Army, police, State Security Service, civil defence, and other agencies.
“Our platforms are well-positioned and capable of reaching every part of the state swiftly,” he said. “The tireless efforts of our colleagues on the ground are making a difference, and we will continue to support them with air power and strategic coordination.”
Governor Idris praised the Air Force and other security agencies for their vigilance, saying their sacrifices had helped keep Kebbi largely peaceful despite emerging threats in the region.
“We are fully committed to working hand in hand with our security institutions to ensure Kebbi remains a bastion of peace and stability,” Idris said.
