Nigerian Air Force on Thursday sought stronger partnership with the civilian populace to bolster national security and facilitate the achievement of its core mandates.
The Air Officer Commanding(AOC), Air Training Command (ATC) Kaduna, AVM Ahmed Dari, made the appeal at the Open Day Activities organised to commemorate the NAF@ 61 anniversary.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was organised by
the Headquarters ATC, in conjunction with the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector-1,
Air Force Institute of Technology, and other units, among others.
NAN also reports that the event had its themed ‘Optimizing Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations’.
It was aimed at promoting understanding and collaboration between the military and civilian populations.
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The AOC emphasised the importance of strong partnerships between the military and the civilian populace in achieving national security objectives.
Dari said the NAF has been unwavering in its constitutional responsibility of defending the nation’s airspace and providing critical air support for land and maritime operations since its establishment in 1964.
He said, “Over the past 61 years, the service had encountered and overcome numerous challenges while making remarkable strides in capacity, professionalism, and operational effectiveness.”
Dari explained that the event provided a unique opportunity for NAF to interact with its host communities and the good people of Kaduna State.
” Activities for the day included a documentary showcase of the NAF’s operational engagements, static display of NAF historical artifacts, and guided tours of NAF platforms.
“These experiences aimed to deepen public understanding and appreciation of the role the NAF plays in safeguarding the nation, “he said.
Dari urged the people of Kaduna State to continue to support the NAF’s efforts by remaining law-abiding and cooperative with security agencies.
Dari reiterated NAF’s committment to its mandate, vowing to continue to work in synergy with other stakeholders to ensure a more secure and peaceful environment for all.
The AOC said the command had contributed significantly to the maintenance of peace and security in Kaduna State and surrounding areas through close coordination with sister services and other security agencies.
Dari commended the Chief of the Air Staff for his continuous support and to the people of the state for their cooperation.
” As the NAF continues to work towards optimising civil-military relations, it remains a beacon of strength and a critical pillar of national defense within the Armed Forces of Nigeria, “Dari said.
Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State, who was also the Special Guest of Honour, commended NAF for its resilience, ability and readiness to stand the tide in defending territorial integrity of Nigeria .
Sani, who was represented by Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr James Kanyip, said the government would continue to collaborate with the military in combating crime insurgency and other crimes.
The Governor said that the state government would continue to give maximum cooperation in carrying its constitutional mande .
NAN further reports that on Friday that no fewer than 700 students from the state’s public schools would be hosted at NAF base on an excursion
It is to allow them to see their platforms and facilities and understand how NAF is sustainably contributing to national peace and development.