The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has called on graduates of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Air War Course 10/2024 to adopt innovative and proactive strategies in tackling the nation’s growing security challenges.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony held at the Air Force War College (AFWC), Makurdi, the Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, highlighted the importance of operational-level military leadership in addressing the complex threats posed by violent non-state actors and asymmetric warfare.
In his address, the Minister stressed the need for the graduates to bring fresh ideas and dynamic approaches to the security landscape, particularly in theatres of operation where Nigeria faces insurgency, terrorism, and other forms of violent extremism.
Badaru expressed his confidence in the graduates’ ability to meet these challenges, upholding the high standards of professionalism associated with the Nigerian military.
“The role of military leadership is critical to the success of our operations. I believe that the knowledge and skills you have gained here will serve you well as ambassadors of excellence within the Nigerian military,” Badaru stated.
The Minister also praised the Nigerian Air Force for its contributions to internal security and international peacekeeping missions.
He specifically lauded NAF’s role in humanitarian support and airlift operations, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to providing the necessary resources to strengthen the nation’s defence capabilities.
Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government, he said, remains focused on ensuring that the NAF is well-equipped to maintain Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The graduation ceremony signifies a critical step in the NAF’s ongoing efforts to build a formidable air force capable of responding effectively to the nation’s security needs.
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