Insurgency: Defence minister flags off military campaign in north-west

Mohammed Badaru, minister of defence, has launched the “re-invigorated” air campaign to combat banditry and insurgency in the north-west region.

In a statement on Monday, Olusola Akinboyewa, spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), said the minister flagged off the military campaign during his visit to the air component of Operation Fansan Yamma in Katsina and Sokoto states on November 18.

Akinboyewa said the launch of the operation “marks a key milestone in neutralizing criminal elements and restoring peace to vulnerable communities”.

He added that the minister praised NAF for its dedication and successful execution of air interdiction campaigns.

“Your bravery and professionalism serve as an inspiration to the Nigerian people,” the NAF spokesperson quoted Badaru to have said.

“We’re witnessing positive changes: farmers returning to farms, children back in school, businesses reopening, and Nigerians sleeping in peace.

“We’re witnessing positive changes: farmers returning to farms, children back in school, businesses reopening, and Nigerians sleeping in peace.”

The minister also reaffirmed the federal government’s support for the NAF under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we’ve prioritised investments in advanced technologies and resources. The president has provided state-of-the-art aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, boosting our capabilities,” he said.

Hasan Abubakar, the chief of air staff (CAS), expressed gratitude to the minister for his visit, which he said “had significantly lifted troop morale.”

“Your servant leadership inspires us. Your operational visits have heightened morale and renewed the fighting spirit of our troops,” Abubakar said.

He reiterated NAF’s commitment to restoring peace and stability to affected communities.

“We understand peace and stability are crucial for Nigeria’s prosperity. Rest assured, the NAF remains committed to safeguarding national unity and progress,” the air staff added.

The minister’s visit also featured briefings from field commanders, inspections of military assets, and a fly-past by NAF fighter pilots.