By Victor Akaa.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has emphasized the need for innovative and proactive approaches in combating complex security challenges.
The Minister gave the charge during the graduation ceremony of the graduates of Air War Course 10/2024 at Air Force War College, Makurdi..
According to a press release by the Deputy Director Public Relations and Information NAF, Group Captain Kabiru Ali Alhaji Badaru urged graduates of the Nigerian Air Force’s Air War Course 10/2024 to leverage their expertise in tackling asymmetric warfare and violent non-state actors.
Represented by Permanent Secretary Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, the Minister highlighted the critical role operational-level military leadership plays in addressing national security concerns. He expressed confidence in the graduates’ ability to uphold the Nigerian military’s high standards and demonstrate professionalism in their future roles.
The Minister acknowledged the Nigerian Air Force’s significant contributions to internal security and international missions, including humanitarian support for the United Nations, the African Union, and friendly African countries.
He assured that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, remains committed to providing the necessary resources to enhance the NAF’s capabilities.
In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, urged graduates to apply their acquired skills to strengthen Nigeria’s defence strategies. He acknowledged the rising profile of the AFWC as a regional hub of excellence in professional military education,evident by the growing international subscription to the college.
Air Marshal Abubakar commended the Air Force War College faculty and highlighted the NAF’s commitment to enhancing airpower capabilities.
Earlier, the Commandant of the College, Air Vice Marshal Adebayo Kehinde welcomed guests to the Air Force War College graduation ceremony, thanking the Honourable Minister of Defence’s representative and other dignitaries for attending. He praised the Chief of Air Staff for creating a supportive environment. AVM Kehinde highlighted the college’s comprehensive training, focusing on operational art, critical thinking, and strategic decision-making.
He emphasized the importance of these skills in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, especially asymmetric warfare, urging graduates to apply their knowledge to tackle evolving threats.
The Graduation Ceremony, attended by 26 participants, including international representatives, two participants from Cameroon and one from Ghana, marked a significant milestone in the NAF’s efforts to build a formidable force safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
