By Ken Afor
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, emphasized the military’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s security during the present administration.
He acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s provision of essential equipment and resources to enable the military to fulfill its constitutional obligations effectively.
Considering the substantial allocation of N3.2tn for defense and security in the 2024 budget, experts argue that the security agencies have ample reasons to meet their mandates without any justifiable excuses.
In a statement released on Sunday, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the service, conveyed that Abubakar encouraged the troops to maintain their relentless pursuit of criminal elements within the nation in order to garner the backing of the citizens.
The statement partly read, “We have no excuse not to deliver on our mandate, as the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government has provided the wherewithal for us to succeed.
“We must, therefore, continue to sustain the momentum of our operations and give our citizens the confidence they require to go about their businesses without fear.”
The Air Chief further urged all Nigerians not to relent in their support for the military and prayers for the brave soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Abubakar noted that while the entire nation can never repay the fallen heroes, efforts at restoring peace and tranquillity in all parts of the country must be sustained to return the country to its peaceful past which was made possible by the dedication and commitment of the fallen heroes.
“The CAS also called on all Nigerians to continue to offer gratitude, goodwill, solidarity, and unrelenting prayers to the fallen heroes and their families. In doing so, according to the CAS, the entire nation will not only be according to these great patriots the honour and credit they truly deserve but also reassure those still in service that the country would never forget their sacrifices nor forsake them in their hours of need,” the statement added.
Abubakar, while addressing the troops, emphasized the importance of honoring the fallen heroes by maintaining the collaborative efforts of air, ground, and maritime operations against terrorists, insurgents, economic saboteurs, and other non-state actors within the nation.
