NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Corruption depletes national wealth, erodes trust — Fagbemi

Corruption depletes national wealth, erodes trust — Fagbemi

181 total views today

By Isaac Aregbesola

Mr Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has described corruption as a major challenge which depletes national wealth and erodes trust in the system.

Fagbemi said this in Abuja at the senstitisation workshop on the revised guidelines on negotiation and drafting agreements by government parties to prevent corruption, Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) and ensure sustainable development.

The workshop was organised on Tuesday by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)

“Corruption is indeed a challenge to the rule of law and it is undoubted that the political system loses its legitimacy when power is used for private advantage.

“It depletes national wealth and erodes trust in the system,” he said.

Fagbemi, who noted that there could not be any substantial development without stemming corruption, said that the Federal Government is poised to tackle the menace headlong in the nation.

He observed with concern that corruption is being promoted by IFFs and arbitrary award of contracts.

From Left: Mr Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, The Chairman of ICPC, Prof Bolaji Owasanoye and Mr Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax reforms at a sensitisation workshop organised by ICPC on Tuesday in Abuja

He said that Federal Government is working towards promoting more effective and transparent management of public resources as well as well-functioning institutions to combat IFFs.

Fagbemi said that government had put in place measures to deter corruption in negotiation and execution of contracts.

“The government has taken measures aimed at ensuring that all contracts within Federal Executive Council’s threshold are properly vetted.

“As we have discovered that a major source of drain on our national purse is the increasing utilization of litigation and arbitration.

“This is sometimes funded by litigation sharks, to foist contracts and agreements that were ab initio procured through bribery and corruption on Nigeria,” he said.

Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice (L) and, The Chairman of ICPC, Prof Bolaji Owasanoye at a sensitisation workshop organised by ICPC on Tuesday in Abuja

According to him, one thing is however clear, there can be no sustainable development without stemming corruption and IFFs.

He noted that key to fighting corruption and IFFs is the methodology of approach.

“Experience has however shown that law and order approach alone is not sustainable. Effectiveness and efficiency require a nuance combination or well-tailored mixture of governance reforms, prevention and sanctions.

“It is estimated that Nigeria loses an average of $1-18 billion annually to illicit financial flows, more than 60 per cent of which is due to commercial IFFs which would be largely prevented with capable negotiation, drafting transparency and patriotic zeal.

“Consequently, the methodology adopted with this workshop is a preventive effort aimed at enlightening key stakeholders charged with the responsibility of negotiating contracts on behalf of Government in the contents of the Revised Guidelines.

“This would hopefully deter corruption in negotiation and execution of Government contracts, which is part of the Federal Government’s Ministerial deliverables on Improved Governance for Effective Service Delivery,” he said.

According to him, the Federal Ministry of Justice is therefore committed to supporting initiatives undertaken by MDAs which are aimed at engendering transparency, efficiency and preventing corruption.

“Equally at the ministerial level, the ministry has developed policy documents and specific mechanisms to ensure transparency and reduce incidence of bad judgment awards.

“Which always arise from poor drafting or drafting of Federal Government Contracts with malafide intention against the country and its citizenry, particularly as it relates to contracts within the threshold of the Federal Executive Council,” he said.

The Chairman of ICPC, Prof Bolaji Owasanoye, noted that Nigeria had continued to experience corruption, IFFs, litigation and arbitral proceedings that could have been avoided with specific guidelines, better negotiation skills, aptitude, patriotism and professionalism.

Dignitaries at the at the senstitisation workshop on the revised guidelines on negotiation and drafting agreements by government parties to prevent corruption, Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) and ensure sustainable development. on Tuesday in Abuja

“Information in the public domain shows that odious contract terms through which Nigeria has been fleeced through IFFs were oiled by a combination of bribery and corruption, competence and capacity deficiency.

“Also through negligence of negotiators, unpatriotic legal professional services in the chain of drafting, negotiating, signing, and contesting litigation or arbitration arising from some of such agreements,” he said.

He said that the workshop was to provide guidance on how to prevent corruption and IFFs in the course of negotiating and drafting of contracts and agreements in doing government business.

“The guidelines that this sensitization workshop is grounded upon was reviewed by experts, improved upon and tested via different capacity building activities implemented by ICPC between 2019 and 2022.

“This is done with local and international experts in furtherance of ICPC mandates of preventing corruption and advising MDAs on ways of minimizing corruption and adopting systems and processes for better efficiency and transparency,” he said.

Cross section of participants at the at the senstitisation workshop on the revised guidelines on negotiation and drafting agreements by government parties to prevent corruption, Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) and ensure sustainable development. on Tuesday in Abuja

Amb. Yonov Agah, Director-General/Chief Trade Negotiator, Nigerian Office for Trade Negotiations (NOTN), lauded ICPC for the production and dissemination of the guidelines to the wider public and relevant stakeholders.

He said the guidelines also underscore the unwavering resolve to uproot corruption and ensure the prudent utilisation of public resources.

He said this would cultivate an environment not only conducive for sustainable economic growth and development, but also a better future for the country.

He said that crafted guideline is a navigational tool capable of safeguarding the national interest against possible corrupt practices, while drafting and negotiating agreements.

“This important tool should ensure that agreements in Nigeria serve as blueprints for progress rather than as fertile grounds for corruption and illicit activities,” he said(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Association decries incessant attacks on Plateau educational, economic growth

Association decries incessant attacks on Plateau educational, economic growth

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MAOSA Set ’85 stakeholders present at the meeting

 

By Peter Amine

The Mangun Old Students Association (MAOSA) has decried the wanton killings and grievous effects of incessant attacks on Plateau educational and economic growth.

Set 85, “The Pillar Set” of the association, made the lamentation in a statement issued in Jos on Monday by its Coordinator and Secretary, Messers Philemon Dagwa and Wajal Nyalwat shortly after its meeting at Plateau Polytechnic.

The pillar set of the school, which is now known as Government Science Secondary School (GSSS), Mangun, described as callous and unacceptable the continuous destruction of lives and property across five local government ares of Mangu, Barkin-Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos and Bassa.

“We strongly condemn in totality, the consciously and well calculated evil attack and massacre of lives and destruction of property meted on Mangu Local Government in particular, by some people who don’t want peace for Plateau.

“Markets and several schools in villagers like Washna, Jing, Lakas, Pushit, Kombun and others have been destroyed along with houses and worship places, making it near impossible for students to resume studies.

“It’s unfortunate that markets are closed and teeming pupils and students are still at home because there schools are no more, nor they can return to their homes that are destroyed due to the activities of the dare devil attackers.

“We hereby call on the Federal Government, corporate organisations and philanthropists to come to the aid of the affected villagers many of whom are taking refuge in some churches and schools in various towns and nearby communities, ” the association said.

MAOSA commended the Caleb Mutfwang PDP-led administration for its quick response by arresting the situation and restoring the peace being enjoyed in Mangu LGA.

The pillar set added. “We’re also grateful to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Oluremi Bola-Tinubu, for coming to the aid of the survivors and displaced persons with donation of N500 million.”

The association, however, commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives in the crisis and prayed God to grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and trauma.

The set, whose meeting reunited mates after 38 years, resolved to make their impact felt by their Alma mater by meeting up some of the needs of the school, to make it a conducive study environment. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Thompson Yamput/Idris Abdulrahman
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Katsina Governor hails army over improved security, pledges support

Katsina Governor hails army over improved security, pledges support

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Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina State 

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina State has commended the Nigerian Army for the efforts of troops in tackling insecurity and restoring peace and stability in the state.

Radda gave the commendation, when he paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, on Monday in Abuja.

He said that the 17 Brigade in Katsina had been supportive to his administration in managing and tackling insecurity that had affected the state.

The governor said the visit was to seek for more support and discuss better ways to collaborate to tackle banditry, kidnapping and criminality in Katsina State.

According to him, Katsina is such a vulnerable state because it borders Niger Republic for a span of over 200 kilometers and over 200 kilometers of forest in about eight frontline local government areas.

“Because of the vulnerability and the number of the communities within those local governments in smaller unit, it makes it more easier for the bandits to attack.

“That has also moved down to about other 11 local government that borders those eight local governments that are also getting one kind of attack or the other through the forest.

“So, I think I will not ask for much but I want to urge the Nigerian Army to expand the operation in Katsina State to those local governments to help us to address the issue of insecurity,” he said.

Radda said the government had established the Community Watch Officers having considered the need to use the locals appropriately to share intelligence with the military and other security agencies to protect their communities against attacks.

According to him, the people are undergoing training at the moment by the military and the police towards engaging them in most civilised rules of engagement in whatever capacity.

“We realise that we need to use the locals to achieve the maximum security in our society because the villagers are very important in terms of engagement, local intelligence and community support.

“Without getting to the support of the locals, the military, police and the rest of them will not be able to function effectively.

“When there is synergy between the civilian and conventional security agencies, it will go a long way in helping to reduce the effect of the banditry in the society,” he added.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja, commended the governor for promoting excellent relationship with army formations and units in the state.

He noted that reports from the brigade had been cheering and encouraging.

Lagbaja also commended the initiative of the government to galvanise civilian contribution to the military efforts to combat the security challenges in the state, through the establishment of community watch officers.

According to the COAS, the position of the Nigerian army has always been to ensure that the community watch officers in Katsina are properly structured.

“I also want to pledge that the Nigerian army will work with this community watch officers.

”Because when they come on board, they will be a plus to the operations and activities of the army units,” he said.

Lagbaja also pledged to look into the request of the governor to expand the coverage of army operations in the state, as well as look at how army could provide the needed counterpart enablers.

He said the army had identified a need to expand the troops holding of operational data to enhance the effectiveness of its formations and units in the field.

“We have observed the gaps that need to be covered for our formations and units to be more effective in the field and I promise you that we will take appropriate actions going forward,” he added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

AVM Irumheson assumes office as Military Pensions Board chair

AVM Irumheson assumes office as Military Pensions Board chair

332 total views today

 

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The new Chairman, Military Pensions Board (MPB), AVM Paul Irumheson, on Monday took over command of the board with a promise to improve on the recent progress made by his predecessor.

Irumheson took over from Rear Adm. Sabiru Lawal, whose tenure came to an end recently.

He also promised to operate an opened-door policy, urging retirees and prisoners to always feel free to come forward with whatever concerns they might have.

He pledged to consolidate on the successes made by the board and sustain timely payment of pension and gratuity of retirees.

He commended his predecessor on his achievements as the chairman of the board in the area of infrastructure and welfare of personnel, and have assurance of sustaining and improving on them.

Earlier, the outgone chairman, Rear Adm. Lawal, said the board had improved significantly from what it was when he assumed office as the Chairman of the MPB on Sept. 18, 2020.

He said the retirees/pensioners could attest to the promptness with which their gratuities and pensions were paid during his tenure, adding that pleasant working environment and policies had also been put in place for the improved wellbeing of staff.

He urged the staff to see their duty to retirees and pensioners as a call to serve, as someday they too would retire and become pensioners.

“In view of the fact that all of us will at one time or the other find ourselves on the payroll of the MPB-whether you are an officer or a soldier, please don’t do to the retirees and their NOKs, what you won’t want to be done to you,” he said.

Lawal urged his successor to key in to the already established processes for the payment of gratuities, death benefits and monthly pensions that had worked so efficiently for the board.

He, however, expressed regret that his intention of conducting an electronic verification exercise of retirees could not be actualised as a result of the challenges faced by the IT Company contracted to execute and midwife the project.

He added that the firm had gone back to the drawing board with assurances that it would be ready for the exercise in soon, and not later than the first quarter of 2024.

Lawal, therefore, implored the new chairman to follow up and ensure the exercise was conducted as planned. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker/Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

Air strikes destroy over 30 illegal oil refining sites in Rivers – NAF

Air strikes destroy over 30 illegal oil refining sites in Rivers – NAF

153 total views today

 

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Air Component of Operation Delta Safe has in the last two months, destroyed more than 30 illegal oil refining site in the strikes around Cawthorne Channel and Bille, in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, made this known in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

Gabkwet said the air strikes ramped up efforts at denying oil thieves and operators of illegal oil refining sites the opportunity to burst pipelines, operate their illegal oil refineries sites while damaging the environment.

He said the air strikes conducted at Cawthorne Channel on Friday, destroyed four active illegal refining sites with dug out reservoirs and surface storage tanks suspected to be containing illegal refined products.

According to him, similar air strikes were also conducted at Bille on Saturday and early hours of Sunday which destroyed three illegal oil refining sites with storage tanks and reservoirs were destroyed.

“In one of the sites, a Cotonou boat suspected to be siphoning crude oil from a flow station was engaged in several passes and destroyed.

“In the last two months, Cawthorne Channel and Bille have accounted for the majority of oil theft and illegal oil refining activities in Rivers State.

“Within this period, over 30 illegal oil refining sites in these two locations have been destroyed by the Land, Maritime and Air Components of Operation Delta Safe.

“These efforts will be sustained in these locations and others until oil thieves and their accomplices desist from their illegal activities,” the statement added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Isaac Aregbesola

Bandits kill 2, kidnap 3 in Kaduna

Bandits kill 2, kidnap 3 in Kaduna

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By Mohammed Tijjani

The Police Command in Kaduna State has confirmed that two persons were killed and three others kidnapped by suspected bandits on Sept. 15, in a community in the state.

The command’s Acting Public Relations Officer, Mr Mansir Hassan, confirmed the development in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Kaduna.

Hassan said that the incident took place in Dogon Noma-Unguwan Gamu community in the Kajuru Local Government Area of the state.

He said that the bandits invaded the community at about 6:30 a.m., killing and abducting the victims.

The spokesman assured that the bandits would eventually be arrested to face the wrath of the law. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Silas Nwoha

No terrorist, bandit, criminal should be spared – Defence Chief

No terrorist, bandit, criminal should be spared – Defence Chief

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has charged operational commanders to ensure that no terrorist, bandit or any criminal is spared in their various areas of responsibility.

Musa gave the directive at the closing of the maiden Defence Headquarters Joint Task Force Commanders Conference with the theme, “Towards Enhancing Joint Task Force Operations for National Security” on Saturday in Abuja.

He said the charge was in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to the armed forces and other security agencies to deal decisively with all threats to national security.

“I want you to remain focused, dedicated and committed towards ensuring that we achieved the mandates of the president that no terrorists, no bandits, no criminal should be spared,” he said.

Musa said the conference had afforded them to discussed the challenges they face, shared their experiences and lessons learned, and collectively charted a course for the future.

He expressed confidence that the knowledge gained, the relationships forged, and the ideas generated during this conference would  significantly contribute to the effectiveness and success of ongoing joint operations.

“One of the key takeaways from our discussions has been the importance of unity of effort.

“As commanders, it is imperative that we foster a culture of cooperation, collaboration, and synergy among our forces.

“By breaking down barriers, sharing resources, and leveraging each other’s strengths, we can maximise our collective impact and achieve our shared objectives.

“Let us bring this spirit of ‘jointness’ back to our respective task forces and integrate it into our daily operations.

“Similarly, the need to reform the structures of the various operations was keenly noted and will be considered,” he said.

Musa assured the commanders that all identified operational challenges would be addressed to ensure operational effectiveness in all theatres of operation.

He said that the ever-evolving security landscape required the military to continuously assess and improve its strategies, tactics, and capabilities to effectively counter emerging threats.

According to him, embracing new technologies, fostering a culture of innovation, and promoting a learning mind-set are essential for maintaining our operational edge.

He also urged the commanders to always encourage and empower their troops to think creatively, to challenge conventional wisdom, and embrace change as they strive for continuous improvement.

The CDS also re-emphasised the need to prioritise the welfare and professional development of personnel, adding that their greatest asset remains the human capital.

“As commanders, we have a responsibility to ensure their well-being, provide them with the necessary resources and support, and create an environment that nurtures their growth and development.

“Let us invest in their training, mentorship, and career progression, recognizing that their success is intricately tied to the success of our joint operations.

“I would also like to emphasise the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships with the communities we serve.

“The trust and support of the local population are critical in our efforts to counter insurgency, terrorism, and other security challenges.

“We must continue to engage with community leaders, religious leaders, and other stakeholders, listening to their concerns, addressing their grievances, and involving them in the decision-making processes.

“By doing so, we can gain valuable insights, foster cooperation, and build resilient communities that are actively involved in securing their own futures,” he added.

Musa urged them to leave the conference with a renewed sense of purpose, a shared vision for the future, and a commitment to excellence, charging them to be bold, innovative, and proactive in their approach to national security.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the commanders of all the DHQ led operations like the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Operations Hadin Kai, Hadarin Daji, Safe Haven, Delta Safe, Whirl Stroke and Whirl Punch, participated in the conference. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Iziama/Ali Baba-Inuwa

We’ll ensure 5% reduction in road traffic deaths – FRSC

We’ll ensure 5% reduction in road traffic deaths – FRSC

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By Ibironke Ariyo
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says the present corps administration will ensure complete realisation of the five per cent reduction in road traffic deaths and injuries across the country.

The Corps Marshal, FRSC, Mr Dauda Biu, said this at the 2023 Special Marshals Sectoral workshop on Saturday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the workshop is “Volunteerism In Road Safety Management: Limits and Possibilities.”

Biu, who was represented by Deputy Corps Marshal (DCM), Mr Shehu Zaki, said that five per cent reduction in road traffic deaths was achievable.

He said that it could be achieved by improving capacity for data collection, analysis and management to enhance road safety policy formulation.

The FRSC boss said that there was a need to always review the Corps activities and analyse the impacts of these activities in the reduction of crashes on Nigerian Roads.

According to him, road traffic crashes are not accidents, but are as a result of the actions or inactions of human beings.

“It is therefore preventable. Road Safety advocacy is not for the FRSC alone rather, it is a shared responsibility involving us all.

“If we resolve today to play our roles in this task, Nigeria will be saving her precious human capital; and the time for action is now,” he said.

Biu said that the Corps in a bid to boost its efforts in achieving its statutory mandate, established a volunteer arm known as Special Marshals.

These, he said, are men and women of proven integrity with legitimate and verifiable sources of livelihood in the society, who had interest to serve humanity without any remuneration attached.

He noted that volunteerism was about having a selfless, nationalistic and contributory mind-set as it had no economic undertone.

The corps marshal added that Special Marshals should not be perceived as persons who are only volunteering for pecuniary interest.

“People should remember that the attributes of a volunteer are delivery of services that must benefit others, and all services should be done without expectation of a reward.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility. Therefore, I congratulate you all on the work you do to reduce crashes on our roads.

” Together, we will ensure that the FRSC 2023 Corporate Strategic Goal in enhancing road safety partnership for innovative intervention
and accomplishing five per cent reduction in road traffic crashes and injuries is achieved,” Biu said.

Speaking, Dr Yusuf Suberu, Squadron Leader, Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), FCT, called on the motoring public to avoid speeding to save lives and property.

Suberu, who is also the National Coordinator, Road Traffic and Vehicle Inspection Mayors, said that the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) had been collaborating and giving support to the FRSC.

He assured that the VIO would continually synergise with the necessary sister agencies to ensure that the roads are safe for all.

“We have been collaborating and giving support in all areas. We have worked together in synergy to ensure the roads are free.

“I tell drivers and motorists that it is better to be late than to be the late(dead).

“Crashes must occur naturally, But you need to slow down and obey traffic rules where and when necessary,” he said.

The high points of the event were the cutting of the cake, decoration of honorary special marshals, presentation of certificates of recognition and awards among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Christiana Fadare

FCT traffic services calls for public participation in road traffic management

FCT traffic services calls for public participation in road traffic management

194 total views today

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), Federal Capital Territory Administration, has called for public partnership in transportation and road safety management to reduce the rate of accidents on Nigerian roads.

Dr Yusuf Suberu, Squadron Leader, DRTS, stated this in Abuja on Saturday, during the 2023 Special Marshals Sectoral Workshop, organised by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), FCT Sector Command Special Marshal.

Suberu, who is also the National Coordinator, Road Traffic and Vehicle Inspection Mayors, said that the public partnership would significantly reduce the spate of avoidable accidents on highways.

He noted that several activities aimed at preventing the causes of accidents and reducing its severity have been implemented by government agencies such as the DRTS and the FRSC.

He added that public support was required in the formulation and implementation of life-saving policies to reduce the rate of accidents to the barest minimum.

According to him, the growth and development of every city is largely determined by the positive attitude of its residents.

He stressed the need for collective efforts and stakeholders’ support for effective traffic management through collaboration with relevant government agencies.

“This will promote safety standards by educating road users on protecting traffic environments and advocating for proper vehicle maintenance amongst others.

“There is also the need to encourage esteemed and distinguished individuals in the society and the public to volunteer as Road Safety Ambassadors.

“The ambassadors will help to decongest and control traffic, as well as maintaining traffic law and order within and around their environment, “he said.

Suberu said that workshop was timely, adding that the discussions and stakeholders’ commitment would attract more volunteers into the road safety management for safer roads.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Occasion, Mr Nathan Egereonu, said that collective effort was needed to achieve a crash-free society.

Egereonu, who is the Head, Contract Administration, Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas, called on individuals to support ongoing efforts towards reducing the rate of accidents on Nigerian roads to the barest minimum.

On his part, Mr Shehu Mohammed, FRSC Zonal Commanding Officer in charge of FCT and Niger, commended the efforts and contributions of the special marshals in improving road traffic management across the country.

Describing their contributions as “unquantifiable”, Mohammed assured the volunteers that their efforts in ensuring sanity on the roads would be rewarded.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the workshop is “Volunteerism in Road Safety Management: Limits and Possibilities”.

Highlights of the event were the cutting of cake, decoration of honorary special marshals, presentation of certificates of recognition and awards to outstanding marshals among others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Philip Yatai

Nigeria, Czech Air Forces to deepen strategic partnership

Nigeria, Czech Air Forces to deepen strategic partnership

214 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, says strengthening strategic partnership with other Air Forces will provide  pathway to an enduring and comprehensive solution to challenges encountered in pilot trainings.

Abubakar made this known when he met with the Commander of Czech Air Force, Maj.-Gen. Petr Cepelka at the ongoing Future Air Force 2023 Conference in Praque, Czech Republic.

He said  the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) was poised to strengthen its strategic partnership with the Czech Air Force in the areas of technological transfer, capacity building as well as research and development.

The partnership, according to him, will enhance the proficiency of NAF maintenance crew to be able to undertake some major maintenance works in-country, thereby reducing aircraft downtime, while improving air operations.

Abubakar sought the cooperation and collaboration of the Czech air force in the areas of counterterrorism, counterinsurgency and pilot training.

He said that NAF had since the initial purchase of the L-39 aircraft in 1986, received more support from the Czech air force, adding that the NAF had continued to maintain active relationship with the Czech air force.

According to him, NAF has in the past collaborated with the Czech air force on pilot trainings on L-39Z aircraft simulator, altitude chamber and spatial disorientation training for several NAF pilots across different platforms, which have positively impacted on NAF’s fighting capabilities.

At the conference, Abubakar delivered a paper titled:  “Pilot Training in the Nigerian Air Force – An Assessment”.

He said the development and employment of air power capabilities were increasingly becoming critical to the dynamic security environment where threats originated from both state and non-state actors.

He added that the constitutional role of the NAF in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges in concert with other security services, demanded constant generation, delivery and sustenance of a diverse range of credible air power capabilities as well as a vastly agile and resilient air force.

This, according to him, is predicated on the crucial need for the NAF to have the necessary human capacity for mission accomplishment, hence the need to ensure that the NAF trained its pilots to the highest professional standards for effective air power delivery.

He said that undertaking the training tasks in a climate of high tempo, harsh economic realities and limited technological expertise presented  its own challenges which were key considerations in preparing pilots for current and future operations.

The CAS also held meeting with officials of Aero Vodochody, who were the Original Equipment Manufacturers of the NAF L-39Z aircraft, where issues related scheduling and timing of overhaul and avionics upgrade of 3 NAF L-39Z were discussed, among others.

Responding, the Czech Chief of Air Staff, thanked Air Marshal Abubakar for sustaining the long history of mutual relationship that had existed between the two air forces.

Cepelka assured him of the Czech air force support in the areas of aircraft acquisition, maintenance, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations and training of NAF Special Forces.

On his part, the representatives of aviation-related industries including Lockheed Martins, Aero Vodochody, SAAB and OMNIPOL were also in attendance to acquaint the participants with new trends in technologies in defence and security. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Edith Bolokor/Chioma Ugboma

 

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