By Musa Umar Bologi Abuja
Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has inaugurated Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Katsina, as well as a Quick Response Wing (QRW) in Daura, Katsina state. Th e 213 FOB is structured to shorten the air force response time in supporting air operations to deal with threats along the border area, according to NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Olatokunbo Adesanya. Also recently, Nigerian Armyinaugurated an FOB in Daura, citing the need to stop fl eeing Boko Haram terrorists to border areas from Sambisa forest, after the capture of the forests by the military late last year, as the motive for establishing the unit.
“A forward operating base (FOB) is a secured military position that is used to support tactical operations. It is traditionally supported by Main Operating Bases that are required to provide backup supports when the need arise. “Analysts, therefore, see NAF presence in the state as strategic, as it will complement eff orts of the ground troops in the broader area; even as they attributed success recorded against Boko Haram terrorists in the North east to the synergy between the two services (army the air force).” Governor of Katsina state, Aminu Bello Masari, said, during the inauguration of the air units, that the presence of the air force in the state was long overdue, considering the strategic location of the state as a broader area.
He said the presence of both the army and NAF FOBs would boost security in the state, and reduce inter border crimes. Chief of the Air Staff , Air Marsha Sadique Abubakar, said FOB would accommodate some platforms and specialised equipment whenever the need arose, adding that the regiment wings in Katsina and Daura, “with specially trained personnel,” will provide protection for NAF personnel and equipment, in addition to responding in aid to civil authority.” According to him, plan is also underway to establish NAF Central Flying School in Katsina.
