Bago urges NAF to sustain onslaught on terrorists, bandits, others 

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has called on the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to sustain its onslaught on terrorists, bandits and other criminals in the state.

When the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, visited him at the Government House, Minna, the governor hinted that the state government was working closely with the security agencies to ensure that all borders are tightened to stop criminals from entering the state.

Acknowledging the tireless efforts of NAF to curtail the activities of criminals, he urged continuous surveillance by air components, promising his government’s continued provision of necessary support, to enable NAF achieve success.

Bago intimated Abubakar that his government appropriated money for the completion of the housing units he promised NAF, adding that the construction work is expected to begin by January next year, while arrangements are also in place to hand over the 1,000 hectares of land allocated to them after compensation must have been paid.

The governor used the occasion to call on all security agencies to join the state’s agricultural revolution by engaging in farming, noting that the government would provide them an avenue to tap from the riches in agriculture.

Earlier, the CAS, who thanked Bago for his support and commitment to synergise with the NAF in tackling insecurity, said NAF would not relent in its efforts and renewed vigour in bombarding terrorist camps in the state.

He disclosed that additional troops would be deployed to Niger to strengthen the fight against terrorists, and that the Air Force would continue to work with other security agencies in its fight to end terrorism.

In a related development, Abubakar was received by the state Commander, 013 Quick Response Force, Solomon Lazarus, and other officers at the Bako Kontagora International Airport, Minna, for a Christmas luncheon with the officers.

Lazarus informed the CAS of the deployment of a special operation force to Alawa, Basa, Pandogari among others to help boost the confidence of the public and appreciated the visit.

Addressing the officers at the luncheon, Abubakar reminded them of their main objective, which is to secure Nigeria as a nation, adding that additional platforms had been created to help tackle insecurity in the country and promised to ensure the comfort of the officers.

While commending the NAF personnel for their gallant efforts, he appreciated the support given to him since assumption of office six months ago, and promised to rehabilitate the schools and hospitals in the Air Force base, as well as advised the officers to be disciplined, especially in relating with civilians.

Abubakar was presented with a gift by National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in the base.