President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Tuesday directed the Nigerian military and other security agencies to intensify efforts to contain the multi-dimensional security challenges in the country.
The President said this during the induction ceremony of two TK-129 ATAK Helicopters and a King Air 360i Aircraft at Nigeria Air (NAF) Base in Makurdi, Benue State.
The President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, also directed the security agencies to change their mindset and tactics in the fight against insecurity.
“You may recall that in my inaugural address, I stated that security shall be the top priority of my administration because neither prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity and violence.
“I also promised to deploy the entire machinery of state power to ensure the security of our people and their properties in a just and democratic society. In the same vein, I pledged to put an end to terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping and other forms of criminality that have bedevilled our country over the years.
“It has been about 6 months since my proclamations and so much has been achieved due to the gallant and synergistic efforts of our various security agencies. I am also pleased that coordination among our security agencies has greatly improved especially in recent months.
“However, there is no room for celebrations until we put an end to the security logjam; until we can bring our troops back to their localities, and until we can free up resources for our critical economic expansion programme.
“As you may be aware, we remain committed to sustaining our investments in soft and physical infrastructure, social security, MSME empowerment, and other growth enablers. We are also pursuing a $1 trillion economy in the next few years, which can only be realized if we achieve a sustainable production of 2 million barrels of crude oil per day as soon as possible.
“These ambitions are feasible when we provide the enabling security environment for our investors to thrive and for our people to engage in meaningful productive ventures. “Your efforts at finally wrapping up our progressive onslaught against enemies of progress are thus not only critical to our end-state but essential in giving our people the trust and confidence that they require to flourish.
“You must therefore step up your efforts at conclusively ending the multi-dimensional security challenge facing our dear country,” he said.
The President also assured of his administration’s continued support to the nation’s security forces through the modernisation of fleets, training and welfare of personnel.
“Indeed, our solemn commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s security hinges upon the realisation that without vigilant attention to the needs of our Armed Forces who are saddled with the maintenance of peace, law, order and stability, anarchy and lawlessness would surely prevail.
“I do not doubt that the deployment of these platforms would add impetus to the combat efficiency of the Nigerian Air Force in addressing our contemporary security challenges, not only within the shores of our country but also in the West African region. We are committed to taking the right steps to achieve the desired results.
“The acquisition of these aircraft amongst other military equipment despite our budgetary constraints is an expression of our commitment. We shall ensure that every sector of our nation benefits from the change that we promised. I therefore expect discipline in operation and a strong maintenance culture that will enable the nation to derive maximum benefits from these acquisitions,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar said the acquisition and induction of the T129 Atak helicopter and Beechcraft King Air 360i aircraft was a testimony of the federal government’s resolve to equip and empower the air force and enhance its capacity to address security challenges confronting the nation.
He thanked the President for the budgetary provision that enabled the Nigeria Air Force to acquire seven brand-new aircraft within six months of his administration.
He said the Nigeria Air Force is currently overhauling its operational platforms, equipment and the entire environment to improve its efficiency and service delivery.
