The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Muhammed Badaru, has urged the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to continue to enhance safety in its operational activities through effective training and manpower development.
Badaru, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Ibrahim Kana, made the call at the NAF Training, Operations and Safety Seminar for the year 2024, on Wednesday in Abuja.
The theme of the seminar is, “Agile and Resilient Air Power for National Security: Enhancing Safety and Optimizing NAF Air Operations to Combat Emerging Threats”.
He said that NAF had achieved significant operational milestones, adding that its ability to effectively utilise its recently acquired assets and platforms to combat terrorism and restore stability to the nation was a notable accomplishment.
According to him, NAF’s successes can be attributed to its well-trained personnel, who operate with a strong emphasis on safety.
“This focus on safety is crucial, as it enables the NAF to maintain a high level of operational tempo while minimising the risk of accidents and mishaps.
“It is noteworthy to mention that the North Eastern part of the country now enjoys relative peace and calmness owing to the selfless contributions and dedication of the men of the armed forces.
“All these would not have been possible if not for the constant need to assess performances and identify shortcomings in our operational activities.
“I believe this is what gave birth to a forum like this, where we would rub minds and examine areas that require improvement,” he said.
The minister said the seminar underscored the need to project air power in the face of national security imperatives while striving to operate within a safe environment.
He emphasised that operations and training were interrelated, saying that the grassroots of every operational activity was quality and adequate training.
According to him, a well-trained airman is a lethal weapon in the field of operations. Training serves as the factory that churns out the finished products that could be used for operational activities.
“Your work done in operations will almost be zero if you cannot produce well-trained personnel.
“Similarly, operations is a crucial part of a fighting force and the current security dynamics of the country mandate the conduct of concurrent operational activities at all levels,” he added.
Badaru called for sustained synergy between the NAF and ground forces in all operational theatres to ensure success.
He said the seminar was crucial in aligning the NAF’s efforts to strengthening safety management practices, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of air operations. (NAN)
