Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state has commended the Nigerian military for the overwhelming sacrifices in restoring and sustaining peace in the country, particularly in the state.
Alia gave the commendation on Friday at a regimental dinner night by the Nigerian Airforce (NAF), Tactical Air Command, Makurdi.
The governor, who was represented by Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuan (Retd), Director General, Homeland Security, described the military as the backbone of the nation’s security and strength.
He said that the NAF was shaping the battlespace, deterring adversary forces, and setting favourable conditions for surface forces to advance and operate.
“I must commend the giant strides and significant victories recorded by the Nigerian Air Forces in 2024.
“It is pertinent for us to honour our men and women who have served in different regions and capacities across the country as well as those who have endured tremendous hardship.
“I recognise and appreciate the sacrifices of our gallant men and women who made the supreme sacrifice by dying in the line of duty.
“The peace, security, and stability we enjoy as a nation is a testament to their selfless, unflinching, and unwavering commitment to the unity and security of this great nation.
“Nevertheless, as you forge ahead in your careers, I implore you to remain resolute at all times,” he charged.
He enjoined military commanders at various levels to maintain the ethos, charisma, integrity, and leadership qualities necessary to drive the desired change needed as a military and as a nation.
AVM Elijah Ibiowe, Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Tactical Air Command Makurdi, said regimental dinner night is a long-standing tradition usually organised to pass down the armed forces core values and traditions to young officers as well as to foster togetherness.
Ibiowe reflected on the year 2024, recognising the dedication, professionalism, and resilience displayed by men and women of the command in the discharge of their duties to defend the territorial integrity of the country.
The AOC said that their tireless efforts, both in training and operations, have been exemplary and worthy of commendation.
“During the year, the command conducted several air operations, including air interdictions on identified adversary locations, and provided close air support to surface forces.
“The command also provided real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions to aid information superiority and decision-making.
“Other notable missions include tactical airlift, logistics resupply, casualty and medical evacuation, as well as liaison flights, amongst others.
“It is with pride and enthusiasm that I must say that we have recorded appreciable combat successes against the adversaries of our beloved nation.
“These missions were all conducted without a major accident, ensuring safe air operations at all times, as some potentially dangerous emergencies were managed professionally and skilfully by our brave pilots,” he said.
AOC, however, said that it faced evolving threats and complex operational environments from various non-state actors.
According to him, prominent among the challenges was the recent identification and prescription of a new terrorist group known as the Lakurawa Terrorists ravaging the North West.
Ibiowe, however, said that through the sterling leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal HB Abubakar, they have remained agile and resilient in the projection of critical air power in the defence of Nigeria.
He stated that the NAF had been utilising the air assets of the command deployed in all theatres of operations in the country.
The AOC added that through collaboration, strategic partnership, concerted efforts, persistence in military duty, innovation, and sheer determination, they continued to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and excellence against criminal elements across the country.
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