NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
NAF celebrating 61 years of dedication, commitment to protecting Nigeria – Official

NAF celebrating 61 years of dedication, commitment to protecting Nigeria – Official

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says at 61, it is celebrating years of dedication to duty and unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty.

Air Commodore Sylvester Eyoma, Chairman, Organising Committee, NAF@61 Celebration/4th International Air Force Forum, said this in Abuja, while briefing newsmen on the activities lined up for the celebration.

Eyoma said that NAF had, in its more than its 61 years of existence, undergone significant transformation in its organisation, manning, and equipment holding.

He noted that the transformation had tremendously bolstered the capacity of the service to effectively deliver on its constitutional mandates.

According to him, NAF has been at the forefront of efforts to combat insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and other criminal acts across the nation.

“Through precision air strikes, coordinated operations, and advanced surveillance, we have recorded significant operational successes.

“These have contributed to weakening terrorists’ networks, disrupting their logistics, and supporting ongoing efforts of own troops and other security agencies in tackling the myriads of security challenges bedevilling our nation.

“Therefore, today, we are celebrating 61 years of dedication to duty and unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty,” he said.

Eyoma said the theme, “Optimising Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations” was in recognition of the citizenry as worthy partner in the efforts to secure the country.

He said that several activities had been lined up for the celebration, adding that some were already ongoing, starting with the Chief of the Air Staff’s Literary Competition, which was opened from between Feb. 10 and 22.

According to him, part of the anniversary events is the Open Day Visits and Career talks that have been held across NAF bases from May 1 and will terminate tomorrow (Tuesday).

He said this had provided rare opportunities for members of the public to visit NAF bases, interact with NAF personnel and get to know more about their air force.

Eyoma added that some Quick Impact Projects would be inaugurated across NAF operations theatre.

“One of the projects is a clinic that has been constructed in Rukubi Community in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where some civilians lost their lives in January 2023, due to an unfortunate airstrike,” he said.

Eyoma disclosed that the Augusta 109S Trekker Helicopter would also be inducted by President Bola Tinubu at the 011 Presidential Air Fleet on Friday as part of the NAF@61 celebration.

He said that the anniversary celebration would transit to the 4th African Air Forces Forum, which according to him, will present an opportunity to build on the progress made so far in furtherance of regional security cooperation.

“It is intended to strengthen our collaborative efforts in employing advanced aerospace technologies to bolster our capacities to address national and regional security challenges.

“The theme of the Fourth African Air Forces Forum is: ‘Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security”.

“For this high-profile event, there will be a gathering of air force chiefs, defense experts, and industry leaders from across Africa and beyond to discuss advancements in air power and regional security cooperation.

“We are expecting more than 2,000 participants at the conference and exhibitions that are scheduled for May 22 and 23.

“They include 30 air forces and 12 chiefs of air staff, 45 exhibitors as well as major defence and aerospace players like Airbus, Embraer, Diamond Aircraft, HAVELSAN, Jet Aviation.

“Others are Starlite Aviation Group, Proforce and of course our own Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

FRSC pledges inclusive driving policy for women

FRSC pledges inclusive driving policy for women

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By Ibironke Ariyo

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is to revise its policies to better accommodate and empower female drivers across the country.

Speaking at the maiden edition of the “Women on Wheels” summit on Tuesday in Abuja, the FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, described the initiative as a transformative platform for promoting gender inclusion, skill development and safety.

The corps marshal was represented by the Deputy Corps Marshal (DCM) in charge of Planning, Research and Statistics (PRS), Mr Clement Oladele.

He said that the recent evaluations revealed that the Road Transport Safety Standardisation Scheme (RTSSS), used for training and certifying haulage and fleet operators, had previously made no tailored provision for women.

This, he said was a gap the corps was now addressing.

“Considering the importance of women in the society being the primary source of the socialisation process for children and families, the inculcation of safe driving habits and safe road use to them becomes crucial.

“It is notable that as at January 2025, there are 1,225,704 licensed female drivers in Nigeria. When unlicensed female drivers are added, the figures will undoubtedly be much more.

“As you are all aware that Road Traffic Injuries are leading cause of deaths among young people aged five to 29 years (these are our sons and daughters).

“What future does the country have, if our youths are wasted on the highway in their prime through mishaps that could have been avoided?

“We are, therefore, reviewing the policy document for inclusivity. There is the need for formal training and licensing,” he said.

Mohammed said that the corps was concerned that many women still prefer informal training from spouses or relatives, rather than enrolling in certified driving schools under the Driving School Standardisation Programme (DSSP).

He said “this does not ensure comprehensive understanding of safety. We urge women to attend certified driving schools and become fully trained.

“Women on Wheels” is more than a programme – it is a movement. It is about empowering women to take control of their journey, to challenge outdated norms and to contribute meaningfully to road safety, transportation and national development.

“It is my fervent hope that this initiative will not end here. “Women on Wheels” will now become an annual programme, providing consistent support, training, and recognition for women in mobility across Nigeria.

“The corps remains committed to supporting and licensing qualified female drivers. The Federal Road Safety has developed standard curriculum for all driving,” he said.

The corps marshal said that FRSC has already recruited female drivers into its operational team and encouraged more women to see driving as a dignified and promising vocation.

He assured that the outcomes of the programme would be reviewed for potential adoption in future FRSC policy decisions.

“Women are naturally careful and responsible on the road. This initiative is a step toward positioning them not just as drivers but as leaders in transportation and road safety,” he added.

In her remarks, the President of the Road Safety Officers Wives Association (ROSOWA), Dr Nafisat Shehu-Mohammed, announced plans to take its “Women on Wheels” programme to the grassroots.

This, she said, would be part of efforts to reach more women with road safety education and empowerment.

She emphasised the need to extend the programme beyond urban centres to ensure rural women benefit from the campaign.

She added that sensitising grassroots women would help improve awareness of road safety, licensing requirements, and driving skills, particularly among those who have not undergone formal training.

“We’re just kicking off in Abuja, but in the near future we intend to hold it twice a year and take it to the grassroots.

“Many women in rural areas do not have access to phones or digital platforms. Reaching them directly is vital, because that is where the masses are,” she said.

In her goodwill message, President, National Council of Women’s Societies, (NCWS), Mrs Ednah Azura, expressed its commitment to expand the reach of the “Women on Wheels” initiative through nationwide mobilisation and advocacy.

Azura described the event as a landmark step toward empowering Nigerian women, especially in the transport and road safety sectors.

“As the umbrella body of all women’s organisations in Nigeria, we see this as a model initiative. With what ROSOWA has done, our job now is to focus on mass mobilisation.

“We’ll take this message to every part of the country and ensure it is heard even at the global level,” she said.

She urged women to become more informed and proactive in areas beyond mobility, including politics and self-representation during elections.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the “Women on Wheels” campaign, initiated by ROSOWA in collaboration with the Corps Transport Safety Office (CTSO) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), seeks to reduce the number of unlicensed and untrained female drivers on Nigerian roads.

This would be done through advocacy, training, and support programmes. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Sadiya Hamza

Russia prepared to provide necessary military assistance to Nigeria

Russia prepared to provide necessary military assistance to Nigeria

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, Andrey Belousov, has expressed the preparedness of Russia to provide the necessary military assistance to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Belousov gave the assurance when the Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, paid him a courtesy visit in Moscow.

The Director, Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, said the visit was aimed at reiterating Nigeria’s solidarity with the Federation on its 80th Victory Day Commemoration, in honour of Russian heroes who paid the ultimate price during World War II.

He added that the visit was highly rewarding, as it enabled the CDS to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to military cooperation with the Russian Federation.

According to him, it also provided an opportunity for the CDS to outline the operational needs of the Nigerian Armed Forces, which Russia could potentially support.

“The Russian Defence Minister expressed appreciation for the visit and noted that, in line with the Military Technical cooperation, Russia was prepared to provide the necessary military assistance to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“He also stated the outcomes of subsequent engagements, such as the meeting of the Intergovernmental Working Group and the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” Gusau said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Insecurity: Group promises to expose members preparing traditional medicines for criminals

Insecurity: Group promises to expose members preparing traditional medicines for criminals

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By Obinna Unaeze

The Nzuko Odinani Welfare Association (a body of traditionalists) in Anambra has promised to expose traditional medicine practitioners, who allegedly specialise in preparing charms for criminals and other unlawful traditional and cultural practices.

The association also promised to assist security agencies to flush out the bad eggs within trado-medicine practitioners in order to enhance adequate security in the state.

The group’s Chairman, Dikeato Izuegbu, reportedly made the promise during its courtesy call on the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Ikioye Orutugu.

Izuegbu commended the police commissioner for his commitment to community engagement.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed in a statement to newsmen in Awka on Sunday that the group visited the command on Wednesday.

Ikenga quoted Orutugu to have promised that the command would partner the association to resolve some social issues surrounding traditional and cultural practices and law enforcement.

According to the statement, the police chief promised a synergy between the command and the group to improve the security of lives and property in the state by “promoting mutual understanding and respect between law enforcement and traditional/cultural practices in the state”.

Orutugu reportedly said that “understanding and respecting local customs and traditions will help build trust and facilitate effective policing in the state”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sam Oditah

Insecurity: Northern governors call for accelerated action

Insecurity: Northern governors call for accelerated action

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By Patience Aliyu

The 19 Northern governors, in collaboration with Chairmen of the Northern States Traditional Rulers Council, have called for accelerated action in tackling the region’s security challenges.

The northern leaders made the call in a six-point communique issued at the end of a meeting at the instance of the Northern Governors’ Forum (NGF), in Kaduna.

The NGF, which acknowledged the role of non-partisan cooperation and collaboration in addressing the numerous developmental challenges confronting the north, deliberated on the ways to improve on the security apparatus of the region and Nigeria at large.

After exhaustive deliberations on matters of regional interest, with emphasis on security, the forum released the following communique:

“The Forum commends Mr President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his sustained commitment to addressing the security challenges and infrastructure deficits in Northern Nigeria.

“The Forum resolved to liaise with the Nigerian Governors Forum to work out modalities on how to increase support to the Federal Security Agencies.”

According to the NGF, the meeting also decided to strengthen peculiar local initiatives in combating all forms of security challenges.

“The Forum also resolved to urgently set up inter-state platforms to coordinate surveillance on our joint borders.

“The Forum reiterated its support for the creation of State Police and called on the National Assembly to expedite action on the enactment of the legal framework for its take-off,” it stated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Forum’s next meeting is scheduled to hold on Aug. 30. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

Forest Security Service vital to Nigeria’s security architecture – NFSS Head

Forest Security Service vital to Nigeria’s security architecture – NFSS Head

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence), Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Dr John Metchie, has said the organisation has capacity to plug the gap in Nigeria’s security architecture.

Metchie stated this at the end of the training of Intelligence, Surveillance and Provost personnel of the NFSS on Saturday in Abuja.

He said that intelligence was the bedrock and the heart of security, adding that the forest guards possess credible and actionable intelligence that could help tackle insecurity in the forested regions.

“I keep saying that we are the missing link and I stand by that belief that forest guards are the missing link of the security architecture of Nigeria.

“I want to also take this opportunity to thank Mr President for his role in all this.

“This is because when Mr President came into power, he promised the Nigerian people that he was going to do something about security.

“Now the bill is on his table and Nigerians are watching and we are begging him to please do the needful and sign the bill immediately, so that we can assist the existing security agencies,” he said.

Metchie commended the Commander-General of NFSS, Dr Joshua Osatimehin, for providing the needed strategic leadership in ensuring that the service gets legal backing.

He also commended him for the training of Intelligence, surveillance and Provost officers to position them to deliver on the mandate of NFSS.

According to him, with the training they have received, they will go back home and will be more effective and ready to serve their motherland.

Dr Stephen Okwori, a Security, Safety and Crime Management Consultant, said that crime was normal and inevitable in any society, adding that the duty of the government and security agencies is to see that crime is reduced.

Okwori said that if the President gives assent to the NFSS Bill, it would enhance security and intelligence gathering in the local communities where most of the violent crimes are perpetrated.

He added that inadequate security presence in rural areas across the country, coupled with the vast nature of the forested areas had contributed to the heightened insecurity in the country.

“So when the bill establishing the NFSS is assented to, they (service) will now cover that gap and complement the effort or support the conventional security services that we have in the area of intelligence gathering.

“I will tell you that most of the failures of intelligence with our conventional security service is because there is no local intelligence security service to cover that gap in the area of generating local intelligence for the military and other securities agencies to work with,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

Navy launches ORBANGAME Express 2025

Navy launches ORBANGAME Express 2025

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By Oladapo Udom

The ORBANGAME Express 2025 will focus on curbing small arms trafficking and enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG), says the Nigerian Navy.

Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Adm. Micheal Oamen, representing the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, launched the exercise aboard Nigerian Navy Ship KADA.

Oamen stated that the exercise, taking place from May 9 to 13, would feature anti-smuggling and narcotics operations as key components of maritime security efforts.

“The Nigerian Navy will deploy six ships, two helicopters, maritime domain awareness assets and elements of the Special Boat Service (SBS) for this sea exercise,” he said.

He added that the exercise would unite partners from the GoG, the Americas, and Europe to evaluate Nigeria’s capacity for joint maritime security operations.

“Over time, this exercise has greatly improved Nigeria’s maritime security architecture and contributed meaningfully to regional stability,” he said.

Oamen noted that Exercise ORBANGAME EXPRESS is an annual multinational event initiated by the U.S. Navy in partnership with GoG nations’ navies.

He explained that since its inception in 2010, the exercise has grown, now including reputable naval forces from Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

“We are pleased to welcome the Spanish warship ESPS RELAMPAGO to this year’s edition of the exercise,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the exercise would enhance operational readiness and deepen international naval collaboration.

“At its conclusion, we expect to further strengthen our collective response to maritime crimes in the sub-region,” Oamen affirmed.

The FOC recalled that in March 2022, the International Maritime Bureau removed Nigeria from the piracy-prone list due to reduced incidents in its waters.

“According to the Nigerian Shippers Council, improved safety in the GoG has boosted trade, thanks to consistent naval operations and support from maritime stakeholders,” he noted.

Oamen expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continued backing and to the CNS for providing essential logistical support to the Navy’s operations.

“As a Navy, we appreciate our partner navies, especially the U.S. and Spain, for their enduring commitment and key contributions to this exercise,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Naval chief provides potable water for Niger community

Naval chief provides potable water for Niger community

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla has inaugurated an integrated solar-powered motorised industrial borehole at Bayan Waya Community in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger.

Speaking at the event on Thursday, Ogalla said the water project was one of his Special Intervention Quick Impact Projects (SIQIP) being executed in communities across the country.

He said the borehole was constructed with 60,000 litres capacity overhead water tank, provision of water points, perimeter fencing as well as provision of solar lighting units around the perimeter of the site.

He was represented at the event by the Chief of Naval Transformation, Rear Adm. Monday Unurhiere.

According to him, the SIQIP is to facilitate the attainment of the re-invigorated Nigerian Navy’s Civil Military Cooperation’s mandate and to contribute to ongoing Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The CNS stated that the projects were avenues for the Nigerian Navy to honor its accomplished senior officers and demonstrate that beyond physically securing lives and properties, it was committed to serving the interests of Nigerians through other ways.

“Today’s commissioning of the Chief of the Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Project undertaken by an illustrious son of Kontagora, Rear Adm. Abdulmajid Ibrahim is yet another watershed in the Nigerian Navy civil-military cooperation annals.

“Not only do these projects resonate with the vision of President Bola Tinubu, the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, it aptly captures the essence for the quick impact projects as conceived by the CNS.

“Indeed, Rear Adm. Ibrahim’s choice to put smiles on the faces of the community typifies Maya Angelou’s avowal that kindness takes courage.

“We therefore salute the senior officer’s mettle and urge him on to more humanitarian endeavors with the novelist Robin Sharma’s words that ‘Each person who delivers kindness stays with us forever’.

“These projects will enhance the quality of lives in this community, I believe that the senior officer and indeed the Nigerian Navy will certainly not be hurriedly forgotten,” he said.

The CNS urged the beneficiaries to use the facilities responsibly so it will endure.

He also appealed to the community and Niger State at large to continue to, in keeping with the tenets of civil-military cooperation, collaborate with the Navy, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies to eliminate threats to their collective well-being.

In his remarks, Gov. Umaru Bago, represented by the Commissioner for Home Land Security, Retired Brig.-Gen. Bello Mohammed, appreciated the navy for the project.

Bago described the project as a significant and impactful initiative of the navy that reflected a strong and commendable sense of national service and commitment to community development.

He said the water project was not just a structure, but a lifeline, adding that it was a testimony to what is possible when security agencies go beyond their traditional mandates to invest in human capital and community welfare.

“Water is essential to life. It is the bedrock of food security, public health, sanitation, and dignity.

“This borehole will undoubtedly alleviate the suffering of the people of Bayan Waya and transform daily life, particularly for women, children, and farmers.

“As we celebrate this achievement, I want to emphasise the importance of community ownership and maintenance.

“This project, which is now a part of your community, should be guarded jealously, maintained regularly, and used responsibly,” he said.

The project facilitator, who is the Chief of Naval Safety and Standard, Rear Adm. Abdulmajid Ibrahim, said the Nigerian Navy has contributed in solving some of the welfare needs of communities across the country.

Ibrahim said the project in Kontagora Emirate marked another significant milestone in the navy’s Civil-Military Relations commitment to communities in Nigeria.

“It is worthy to note that this is one of several projects executed as part of the Chief of the Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Project across the country.

“Bayan Waya community is now a proud beneficiary of the CNS Special Intervention Quick Impact Project with the commissioning of this Integrated Motorised Solar Powered Industrial Borehole with 60,000 litres capacity overhead Tank,” he said.

The project Inauguration event was graced by His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammed Barau Mu’azu II, Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora- Represented by Magayaki of Kontagora, Alhaji Adamu Mohammed.

Also at the ceremony is the Member Representing Kotongora 1 Constituency in the Niger State House of Assembly, Umar Sani. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Airmen gets 30-room transit accommodation in Imo

Airmen gets 30-room transit accommodation in Imo

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By Peter Okolie

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, on Thursday inaugurated a block of 30-room transit accommodation for airmen of the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) at Owerri, the Imo capital.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the facility is located at the 211 Quick Response Group (QRG), NAF Base, Owerri.

In a speech at the event, Abubakar said the occasion marked a significant milestone in the base’s development and demonstrates commitment to enhancing personnel’s operational efficiency.

He said the project would assist to maintain highly motivated force in the fight against myriads of security challenges in the state and South East region.

“This achievements is commendable in curbing the prevailing security situation in Owerri and its environment.

“We are not oblivious of the threats posed by the activities of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), whose activities have continued to undermine peace and security in this region,” he noted.

Abubakar reaffirmed the readiness, commitment and resolve of the NAF to its constitutional mandate to defend the territorial integrity of the country as well as property and lives of citizens.

He said NAF would continue to collaborate with other security agencies to restore normalcy and stability in affected communities.

He charged those who would reside in the facility to uphold highest standards of discipline, professionalism and loyalty.

“The facility was not just in appreciation of your sacrifices but a reminder of your huge responsibility of crime fighting.

“Let this infrastructure inspire you to promote excellence and uphold commitment to duty,” he stated.

He said NAF had experienced remarkable transformation under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

“This is evident in the significant upgrade of our aircraft inventory and enhanced operational readiness.

“In recent years, we have bolstered our fleets with 15 cutting-edge aircrafts and we are set to receive more.

“Looking ahead, we are slated to acquire 49 additional aircrafts by 2026, bringing the total aircrafts to 64 new aircrafts in just three years,” he noted.

He said the new accommodation would expand operational capabilities, enhance quick response initiatives and empower the unit to execute its duties with increased precision, speed and effectiveness.

In a remark, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command NAF, AVM Usman Abdullahi, said the facility would foster optimal performance, boost morale and wellbeing of personnel.

Abdullahi further noted that it would reduce operational cost for personnel who traveled to and fro the city center.

He assured Abubakar that the facility would be utilised to enhance personnel performance and boost its relentless efforts in combating crime in the South East.

“Through our sustained operations, collaborations and community engagements, we have made significant strides in maintaining relative peace and stability in the South East region,” he stressed.

Abdullahi expressed the command’s resolve to protect lives and property as well as combat any security threat within their jurisdiction.

Also speaking, the Commander 211 Quick Response Group, Air Commodore David Bello, said the presence of Abubakar was a testament to his commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the unit.

“The new accommodation facility will boost our infrastructure and enhance our operational capabilities.

“Its accomplishment reflects the Chief of the Air Staff’s leadership philosophy which emphasises personnel welfare and infrastructure as a key to a motivated force,” he said.

Bello added that the facility would build on the unit’s recent successes, particularly in disrupting IPOB’s activities. (NAN)(www nannews.ng)
Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

Join Nigeria’s Armed Forces – NAF Commander urges southern youths

Join Nigeria’s Armed Forces – NAF Commander urges southern youths

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By Desmond Ejibas

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has urged Nigerians, particularly youths from the South-West and South-East regions, to consider joining the nation’s armed forces to promote national unity and inclusivity.

Group Capt. Abdulafeez Opaleye, Commander of the 115 Operations Group, NAF Port Harcourt, made the appeal on Tuesday during a maiden Open Day event organised to mark the 2025 NAF Day celebration.

Opaleye expressed concern over the low representation of youths from the southern regions in the military, noting that their inclusion would enhance diversity and strengthen national cohesion.

According to him, the armed forces symbolise unity which every Nigerian, irrespective of regional or ethnic background, has a role to play in the defence of the nation.

“It is concerning that Nigerians from the southern part of the country have not been presenting themselves to join the military, as they should.

“The military, including the Air Force, belongs to every Nigerian. Therefore, all citizens have a stake in ensuring the success of the nation’s armed forces,” he said.

Opaleye noted that declining enlistment figures were among the reasons the NAF organised its first Open Day, giving members of the public the opportunity to tour its facilities and observe its capabilities.

“Today, we have opened our base to over 1,000 guests to experience what the NAF represents. The NAF is the people’s Air Force.

“We, therefore, encourage southern youths to take advantage of these opportunities to become part of the Nigerian Air Force,” he urged.

The air force commander explained that the Open Day initiative was designed to strengthen civil-military relations and promote a better understanding of the NAF’s role in defending the nation.

He stated that the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, had repositioned NAF as a modern and capable force, equipped to defend Nigeria’s airspace.

Opaleye further explained that the Air Force was currently engaged in joint operations across various regions, including the North-West, North-East, North-Central, and South-East.

“The NAF possesses the requisite capabilities, manpower, and training to effectively fulfil its constitutional mandate in defending Nigeria’s airspace.

“Recently, we winged 35 new pilots in Kaduna, significantly enhancing our operational capacity and serving as a morale booster in joint operations,” he added.

On illegal bunkering, Opaleye reported a decline in oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta region, attributing the progress to joint security efforts supported by air operations.

He noted that the difficult terrain of the Niger Delta, including swamps, creeks, and mangroves, often posed significant difficulties for ground forces to navigate and access.

“In areas where the Army, Navy, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and Police cannot access, the NAF is able to reach those places.

“Nigerians might not see NAF personnel on the ground, but our operations create an enabling environment for ground forces to carry out their duties effectively,” Opaleye concluded.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Open Day featured a display of four helicopter gunships, weapon systems, and arial manoeuvres. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Jane-Frances Oraka

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