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Defence Minister commends NAF efforts in ongoing joint operations
Defence Minister commends NAF efforts in ongoing joint operations
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has praised the formidable air power displayed by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as an indispensable component of combat power vital for safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Dr. Badaru also highlighted the NAF’s consistent provision of airlift and humanitarian support to the United Nations, the African Union, and friendly African nations, underscoring its role in enhancing Nigeria’s global standing.
The Minister made these remarks on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, during his role as the Special Guest of Honour at the Air War College (AWC) Course 9/2023 graduation ceremony held in Makurdi, Benue State.
Represented by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the Minister emphasized that the AWC’s curriculum, focusing on operational art and critical thinking, would foster proactive operational planning and management within the NAF, crucial for national security and socio-economic development.
He lauded the dedication of NAF personnel in contributing significantly to the success of ongoing joint operations, especially in counterinsurgency and counter-terrorism efforts.
Also, at the ceremony, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father (Dr.) Hyacinth Alia, commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) for their role in restoring peace in Nigeria and expressed gratitude to the NAF for ensuring peace and security in Benue State, reassuring the populace.
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In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, emphasized the importance of human capacity development for the NAF’s constitutional mandate.
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He announced plans to induct additional platforms to bolster training and air power capabilities, including helicopters, surveillance aircraft, and attack aircraft, showcasing the government’s commitment to equipping the NAF for enhanced security.
The CAS praised the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for its unwavering support in equipment procurement and training.
He highlighted the role of institutions like the AWC in promoting jointness and synergy in ongoing operations and emphasized the significance of joint force employment in modern military operations.
The CAS also acknowledged the AWC’s consistent efforts in developing middle cadre officers’ leadership skills and effective use of air power.
He emphasized the College’s focus on critical thinking, operational planning, net assessment, and future studies, which has attracted a broader audience from various services and friendly nations.
The Commandant of the College, Air Vice Marshal Abayomi Kehinde, informed guests about the harmonization of course curriculums among the Army, Naval, and Air War Colleges, promoting jointness.
He highlighted the joint operational planning exercise, EXERCISE SKYLOCK, as a means to enhance inter-service synergy and collaboration within the AFN.
He expressed confidence that participants’ exposure to joint operations planning and execution would broaden their knowledge and strengthen their understanding of unified, multi-agency approaches to warfare, crisis management, and resolution.
Among the 15 graduates, one was a Cameroonian officer, demonstrating the College’s status as a tri-service and multi-national institution.
