Nigerian Army Edges Closer To Operationalisation Of Aviation Unit

isaac aregbesola
Dec, Mon, 2023

Defence/Security

Nigerian army edges closer to operationalisation of aviation unit

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

As part of efforts towards the operationalisation of the Nigerian Army Aviation, the unit is holding a 3-Day Workshop on Aviation Emergency Response Preparedness and Tool Handling/Hangar Management to prepare its personnel.

The Chief of Training (Army), Maj.-Gen. Sani Muhammed, represented by the Deputy Chief of Training, Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Abai said this in Abuja on Monday.

The event with the theme; “Guardians of the Skies: Preparedness and Precision” had participants and resources persons drawn from the civil aviation, the Nigerian Air Force and other stakeholders.

Muhammed said the workshop marked a significant milestone in the journey towards operationalisation of the Nigerian Army Aviation.

He said the gathering represented a pivotal moment towards enhancing their capabilities, share knowledge, and fortify their commitment to ensuring a robust aviation emergency response system.

According to him, the workshop is expected to serve as a platform for fruitful insights that will undoubtedly contribute to the continued excellence of the Nigerian army aviation.

He commended the organisers, participants, and all involved in making the workshop a reality.

He also acknowledged the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for his unwavering commitment and dedication towards operationalisation of the army aviation.

“Let us use this workshop as an opportunity to foster greater synergy among all stakeholders and chart a clear path towards a more capable and effective Nigerian army aviation,” he said.

Acting Coordinator, Nigerian Army Aviation, Brig.-Gen. Musa Alkali, said the workshop was in line with the command philosophy of the COAS.

According to him, the philosophy is to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force towards achieving its constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.

Alkali said that preparedness was not merely a virtue in aviation but an imperative, adding that the Nigerian army’s commitment to excellence was reflected in its unwavering dedication to ensuring the highest standards of emergency response.

He said there was the need to strengthen their resolve to be at the forefront of preparedness by delving into the intricacies of aviation emergency response.

According to him, the hangar, a crucible of aviation prowess, requires meticulous management as it is not merely a shelter for aircraft but a symbol of commitment to precision and operational efficiency.

“As we discuss tool handling and hangar management, let us remember that the tools we wield are not just instruments; they are extensions of our dedication to excellence. In the face of challenges, we, the defenders of the skies, must be ready.

“Our preparedness is not just for ourselves but for the nation we serve. Let this Workshop be a crucible of ideas, forging a path to greater proficiency and ensuring that when duty calls, we respond with precision, skill, and unwavering resolve,” he said.

Alkali thanked the COAS for granting approval for the workshop and providing the necessary support and urged all participants to actively engage in the discussions, share their expertise and collaborate in charting a course towards a more capable and effective Nigerian army aviation.

The Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr Kabir Mohammed, who delivered a paper titled, “Tactical Response, Search and Rescue in the Wake of an Aviation Emergency”, said that emergency in aviation required stakeholders collaboration.

Mohammed said that availability of equipment, the readiness of officers and communications during such incidents were crucial to managing aviation emergencies.

According to him, emergencies don’t give notice, they just happen, hence the need to be ready at all times.

“The more you understand how to handle an emergency situation, the better, so that in such situations people hardly have time to think.

“You might have certain procedures, but the quantum or the level of situation could naturally take you off guard.

“But, if you know what to do within the period of time, you will just be churning out orders and giving instructions on what to do and how to do it best,” he said. (NAN)

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