The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has called for deeper collaboration with the civilian populace to enhance national security and support the fulfilment of its operational mandates.
The appeal was made by the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of the Air Training Command (ATC), Kaduna, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Dari, during an open day held as part of activities marking the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force.
The event, hosted by the ATC in conjunction with the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector-1, the Air Force Institute of Technology, and other NAF units, aimed to foster closer ties between the military and the public.
AVM Dari highlighted the crucial role of civil-military cooperation in maintaining peace and security, noting that since its establishment in 1964, the NAF has remained steadfast in its constitutional duty of defending Nigeria’s airspace and providing essential air support for land and maritime operations.
“Over the past 61 years, the Nigerian Air Force has faced and surmounted various challenges, while recording impressive achievements in capacity building, professionalism, and operational efficiency,” he said.
He added that the open day was a platform for the NAF to engage directly with its host communities and the wider Kaduna public, with activities including documentary presentations on NAF operations, static displays of historical artefacts, and guided tours of aircraft and platforms.
“These interactions are designed to foster better public understanding and appreciation of the Air Force’s pivotal role in national defence,” he noted.
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AVM Dari also urged residents of Kaduna State to continue supporting the NAF by cooperating with security agencies and remaining law-abiding.
He acknowledged the command’s contribution to peace and security in Kaduna and neighbouring areas through collaboration with other security services.
The AOC further expressed gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff for his unwavering support and thanked the people of Kaduna for their continued cooperation.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr James Kanyip, lauded the Nigerian Air Force for its resilience and commitment to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.
Governor Sani reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with the military in the fight against insurgency and other security challenges.
