Nigeria Boosts Anti-Banditry Campaign with 50 New Aircraft

The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has stated its readiness in increasing its operations against bandits with fifty new aircraft that are expected before the end of this year and early next year.

Its primary purpose is to enhance the security measures within the South-West region of Nigeria and the rest of the country as well.

According to the Chief of Air Staff, Marshal Bala Abubakar, the plan for acquiring the new aircraft was imminent and would entail the addition of 12 AH-1 attack helicopters, 24 M-346 attack aircraft, 12 Augusta Westland 109 helicopters, and 2 Casa 295 medium airlift aircraft.

This announcement was made at the official launching of newly constructed facilities at the 213 Forward Operational Base in Katsina State. These amenities include a taxi way connection, two aircraft hangars, operational and engineering structures, a perimeter fence and a football pitch.

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Appreciating the federal and state governments for the support extended towards addressing the banditry issue, Air Marshal Abubakar commended the efforts of NAF personnel in achieving the objective of maintaining the order and stability within the area.

In his effort to encourage morale among NAF personnel during the Chief of Air Staff Sallah luncheon, Abubakar mingled with the personnel and appreciated their efforts while understanding about being away from their loved ones.

The secretary to the Katsina State Government who spoke on behalf of the governor of the state, praised the actions of the NAF personnel, hailing them as brave men and women determined to push on. He affirmed the commitment of the state government to security agencies, pointing out that they will continue to provide them with all the necessary logistics.