Leader of the Air Force, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has emphasized the military’s commitment to ensuring a safe country during the current government. He pointed out that President Bola Tinubu has provided the necessary equipment and resources for the military to carry out its duties as outlined in the constitution. In the 2024 budget, a sum of ₦3.2 trillion has been allocated for defense and security. This allocation, according to experts, gives the security forces ample resources to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
Through a statement from the Air Force’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Air Marshal Abubakar encouraged the troops to continue their efforts against criminal elements in the country. He stressed the importance of maintaining the momentum of their operations to instill confidence in citizens, allowing them to carry on with their daily activities without fear. Abubakar also called on all Nigerians to support the military and remember the fallen heroes in their prayers. He acknowledged that the sacrifices of these heroes cannot be repaid, but the nation must strive to restore peace throughout the country as a way of honoring their dedication.
Abubakar urged Nigerians to honor fallen heroes.
The Air Chief urged citizens to express gratitude, goodwill, solidarity, and continuous prayers for the fallen heroes and their families. He emphasized that by doing so, the nation not only honors these patriots but also assures those currently in service that their sacrifices will not be forgotten, and the country will stand by them in times of need. In his advice to the troops, Abubakar highlighted that the best way to pay tribute to the fallen heroes is to maintain the joint air, ground, and maritime strikes against terrorists, insurgents, economic saboteurs, and other non-state actors in the country. This, he believes, is crucial in ensuring the restoration of peace and tranquility throughout the nation, reminiscent of the peaceful past shaped by the dedication and commitment of those who have sacrificed their lives for the country.
In a bid to address the escalating security crisis in Plateau State, soldiers and various security agencies, including the police, have ramped up patrols in troubled communities since December 2023. The move follows a devastating terrorist attack on 25 communities across Bokkos, Mangu, and Barkin Local Government Areas on Christmas Eve, resulting in the tragic loss of over 150 lives and the displacement of more than 10,000 individuals. The affected communities have been left in ruins, with millions of naira worth of properties destroyed.
Displaced persons desire to return to their communities.
Speaking with the media, Chairman of the Community Peace Observers in Bokkos LGA, Kefas Mallai, shed light on the dire situation faced by displaced persons. Mallai expressed the deep desire of the affected individuals to return to their communities but highlighted the prevailing fear of potential attacks hindering their return. He emphasized the urgent need for security agents to locate and neutralize terrorists, ensuring the recovery of weapons, and enabling the safe return of residents to their now deserted communities. Responding to the security concerns, the Spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, assured the public that security patrols and surveillance would persist until permanent peace is restored in the region. Alfred emphasized the commitment of the deployed personnel to conduct thorough searches in areas identified for potential threats.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, asserted that the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, remains resolute in preventing terrorists from destabilizing Nigeria. During a visit to Governor Caleb Mutfwang in Jos, Matawalle, accompanied by top military officers, assured the governor that concerted efforts were underway to address the security challenges. He emphasized the need for political will and collaboration to effectively tackle the insurgency, categorizing the perpetrators as mere “small rats” that would not succeed in bringing the country down.
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Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed gratitude for the visit and underscored the importance of addressing the security challenges in the country. He highlighted the significant mineral deposits in the affected regions and the strategic importance of protecting national monuments, such as the hydroelectric station in Kura Falls. As the Federal Government, security forces, and local authorities collaborate to restore lasting peace in Plateau State, the nation watches with hope that their combined efforts will yield positive results and put an end to the ongoing security crisis.
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