The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) today commissioned the 213 Forward Operating Base
(FOB) in Katsina and the Quick Response Wing (QRW) Daura thus formally marking
the beginning of operations in the 2 units. The idea behind the establishment
of the new units is to extend the reach of the NAF to the Northwest
Geopolitical Zone, having already made appreciable contributions in different
theatres of operations across the country. The 213 FOB is thus structured to
shorten NAF’s response time while extending its reach in supporting air
operations to deal with threats to Nigerians.
While commissioning the new
units, the Special Guest of Honour, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of
Katsina State, Right Honourable Aminu Bello Masari, lauded the decision of the
Federal Government in establishing the NAF units in Katsina. He stated that
NAF’s presence in Katsina was long overdue considering its strategic
importance, being a border state. He expressed his belief that the presence of
the NAF in Katsina would go a long way in complementing the efforts of the
Nigerian Army troops in boosting security in the State. He therefore requested
members of the NAF’s host communities to give maximum support to the NAF.
Governor Masari was also full of praises for the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS),
Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, who he acknowledged had done so much to
reposition the NAF as one of the best air forces in Africa. He particularly
commended the standard of buildings on the NAF bases, saying that they
indicated a leader that cares for the welfare of his personnel, adding, “the
other arms of the Armed Forces should emulate the NAF”.
In his remarks at the occasion,
the CAS stated that the 213 FOB would accommodate some platforms and
specialized equipment whenever the need arises. He added that the regiment
wings in Katsina and Daura, with their specially trained personnel, would
provide the necessary protection for NAF personnel and equipment, in addition
to responding in aid to civil authority, when called upon to do so. He then
charged the NAF personnel to conduct themselves professionally and treat all
citizens with respect and dignity. Air Marshal Abubakar, who seized the
opportunity to announce the establishment of a Central Flying School in
Katsina, also expressed gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for creating
the enabling environment for the NAF to fulfil its statutory responsibilities.
Meanwhile, as part of the NAF’s corporate social responsibility to its host
communities, the CAS handed over a fully furnished block of 4 classrooms
constructed by the NAF at Muhammadu Buhari Primary School in Daura. The CAS and
his team had since returned to Abuja.
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