Chima Azubuike, Gombe
Air Vice Marshal Sadique Abubakar, on Monday said the war against insurgency in North East has received a boost with the establishment of an operational base in Gombe.
Abubakar disclosed this in his address, at a ground breaking ceremony for the Construction of infrastructure and Utilities in over 230 hectares, of 203 Combat Reconnaissance Group Nigerian Air Force Group in Gombe.
He said, “The newly established group which is strategically located in Gombe to enable the Nigerian Air force to effectively respond to activities in the North East is expected to add value to our operations in the fight against insurgency and other security challenges in the country.
“The activation of the unit marks another milestone in our effort to establish presence in critical part of the North East.
“Upon assumption of office in 2015, we chartered a new course for the service with a vision to reposition the Air force into a highly professional disciplined force through capacity and initiatives for effective, efficient and timely deployment, of Air power in response to Nigeria’s National security imperatives.
“In line with this vision we have expanded the structure of the service by creating two new field commands one of which is the special operations command with headquarters in Bauchi as well field response groups and quick response wings to bring security closer to the Nigerian people.
“Moreover, In response to the security challenges in the North East of the country, the new units have undoubtedly enhanced the capacities of Nigerian Air Force to ensure Nigeria is secured and our citizens pursue their legitimate aspirations without fears.”
Abubakar added that the enhancement of operational fields will not have yielded much effort if not for the hardwork and commitment of officers.
“Let me commend you all for your commitment and patriotism. However, I want to urge us all to remain focused and redouble our effort while continuing to work tirelessly in conjunction with other sister agencies to ensure that peace is restored in all part of the country. You must embrace the highest level of loyalty and professionalism in all conduct.”
On his part, the governor of Gombe state Inuwa Yahaya, said the rapid take off of operations reflects the leadership quality of Sadique Abubakar.
He said, “The establishment of
203 Combat Reconnaissance Group Nigerian Air Force Group in Gombe will contribute to securing of Nigeria Air space.
“The success of Nigerian Air force is determined by how well it secures the air space and how well it responds to attacks both internal and external.
