Airforce Chief Commends Troops’ Efforts In Strengthening National Security

Airforce Chief Commends Troops’ Efforts In Strengthening National Security

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has commended the officers, airmen and airwomen for their unwavering efforts in the fight against bandits and terrorists in the country.

He stated this on Monday during the 2025 Sallah Luncheon with the personnel of the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Sector 2, held at the Air Force Base, Katsina State.

He was represented by the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Usman Abdullahi.

He said, “I wish to commend you, our gallant officers, airmen, and airwomen of the air component for your unwavering commitment, not just to the mission, but to one another and to the security of our great nation.

“Let me reassure you that your welfare and well-being remain a top priority for me and I am conmitted to providing you with necessary equipment, training and support to achieve more excellence in the effective discharge of our duties.

“As we mark this special occasion, l encourage you all to remain focused and resolute. The Nigerian Air Force remains fully committed to your welfare and operational effectiveness until ultimate victory is achieved.

“While we acknowledge that challenges exist, some which are unique to our operating environment, we must never allow them to hinder our progress. Our mandate remains to restore normalcy to the region, and we must remain undeterred until total victory is achieved.

“Let us therefore continue to forge ahead with determination and resilience, knowing that every effort we make today strengthens our nation’s security and stability.

“As we celebrate, let us also take a solemn moment to remember our fallen heroes, the brave men and women who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. Their sacrifice remains a source of inspiration to us all, and we pray for the continued repose of their souls.”

He then thanked President Bola Tinubu for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting the Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Air Force, in achieving its mandate.

“May I also specially appreciate the Minister of Defence, Minister of State Defence as well as the Chief of Defence Staff for their corporations and unflinching support to the Nigerian Air Force.

” I also extend my gratitude to the Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Umar Radda, for his support and collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force in enhancing security within the state.

“To the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, I commend your leadership and dedication in coordinating efforts to sustain operational successes. I equally appreciate our sister services particularly the Nigerian Army, other security agencies and the host communities for their cooperation and support, which have greatly affected adversary capabilities.

“I am fully aware of your tireless sacrifices, both in the heat of the day and the darkness of the night. These accomplishments reaffirm the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to safeguarding our nation and ensuring lasting peace in the region,” he added.

Earlier, the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA and Commander, 213 Forward Operating Base Katsina, Garba Jibia, said Sallah Luncheon is an occasion organise to boost the morale of frontline troops who have been toiling day and night to secure the nation.

According to Jibia, joint operations from January 2025 to date, the obliteration of mass bandits/terrorists, including top commanders as well as their structures and equipment has drastically reduced their capability to carry out attacks on hard/soft targets.

“This remarkable achievement recorded by the Air Component underscores the renewed drive of the leadership of the 22nd Chief of the Air Staff, for effective airpower delivery in pursuance of national security imperatives.

“Let me also use this opportunity to acknowledge and commend the gallant pilots as well as the entire personnel of AC OPEY and 213 FOB for a job well done. Your valiant, uncommon dedication and selfless service exemplifies the true spirit of the Nigerian Air Force. We owe the service and the nation our unalloyed commitment to do even more,” he said.