From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Wednesday honoured personnel involved in operations that led to the elimination of notorious bandit leaders and their fighters in Zamfara State.
According to the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, the recognition is part of efforts to boost personnel morale.
Similarly, as part of its inter-agency cooperation, the NAF signed a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau and the Hybrid Health, Safety, and Environment Group to strengthen collaborative efforts and enhance safety standards across the aviation sector.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Air Marshal Abubakar said:
“This august gathering also affords us the opportunity to recognise and applaud the outstanding achievements of some of our personnel.
“Accordingly, I will be presenting awards to a group of distinguished individuals who, through extraordinary gallantry and exceptional performance, led ground offensives that resulted in the elimination of notorious bandit leaders and gang members in Zamfara State, under OPERATION HADARIN DAJI, now OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA.
“Their dedication and courage exemplify the highest ideals of service to our nation. While the entire country is grateful for their remarkable contributions, the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to recognising, motivating, and rewarding such exemplary individuals in a manner befitting their service and sacrifice.”
He further noted that the Nigerian Air Force has made significant strides in enhancing operational readiness and safety protocols. However, he stressed that emerging threats require greater collaboration, improved training frameworks, and the institutionalisation of safety as a cornerstone of all operations.
Abubakar commended personnel for their bravery, resilience, and determination to end insecurity in the country.