Air Vice Marshal Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, has urged a collaborative approach to tackling the rising security concerns in Kebbi State.
During his visit to Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, Abubakar highlighted the gravity of these reports, stating they could destabilise the state’s long-standing peace.
Abubakar acknowledged Kebbi’s unique security challenges due to its extensive size and shared borders with two other countries.
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“The reports of insecurity we are getting from Kebbi are a source of concern. If these issues are not resolved, they could jeopardise the peace the state has enjoyed for many years,” he said.
Abubakar also noted that his visit was to evaluate the performance of Air Force personnel in the state, expressing his satisfaction with their conduct.
He reassured the governor that the Air Force would increase its aerial surveillance to eliminate criminal elements and restore peace in the affected regions.
In response, Idris called on the Federal Government to establish a permanent Air Force base in Kebbi to better address the security issues.
He pointed out that the state’s airport is among the best in the country and noted the state government’s existing collaboration with the Nigerian Army.
The governor also mentioned that the Nigerian Navy had recently committed to establishing a naval base in Yauri.
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“I commend the Chief of Air Staff for the support provided to the state. When we have bandit attacks, the Air Force often comes to our aid,” Idris stated.
“Creating a permanent base here would significantly help in addressing these security challenges, and the state government is prepared to support the Air Force’s efforts.”
