By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence has commissioned two ATAK-129 Helicopters into the country’s military operations, with a promise that end of banditry is near, urging the troops to synergize with ground forces and other stakeholders to defeat “enemies of the country”.
Badaru Abubakar at a visit on Monday expressed delight with tremendous successes recorded in the last one week by the troops of the Nigerian Air Force in the Northwest Region where several bandits were dislodged from their hideouts.
Accompanied by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, the Minister was in the North West State of Katsina where he commissioned the two ATAK-129 Helicopters to be deployed into Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 2.
The two additional helicopters have advantage over other fighter jets to ensure that no enemy can hide from justice, the Minister explained.
They are being deployed to defeat bandits and other criminal elements that undermine the peace, stability and prosperity of the Northwest Region, the Minister added.
He applauded the courage, dedication, commitment and personal sacrifice of the troops in the ongoing onslaught to secure Nigeria’s future which he believes is bringing positive outcome.
Farmers are already returning to their farms, children are going back to school, businesses are growing and ordinary Nigerians can sleep in peace, the Minister remarked while outlining the positive outcomes.
“We salute you for the personal sacrifice you have been making, leaving behind your families and comfort of your homes to secure our collective future.
“We are grateful, we will remain committed to provide you and your families the necessary resources in ensuring that you receive the best incentives and other benefits.
“With the induction of these new critical platforms, and the quality of officers and men operating them, I am confident that it will make Nigerians proud. Together, we will dominate the battle space and achieve successful results.
“The unique set of the air components deployed, has capacity. It speeds, reaches, precision to ensure that no enemy can hide from justice. And the long arm of the law will reach those who want to destroy our peace.
“I urge you to synergize with ground forces and other stakeholders to ensure maximum effect. Be fast towards safer and strong Nigeria. Synergy must remain the watchword to enable us defeat the enemies of the country.
“I am satisfied with the recent efforts made by the troops. We have seen tremendous success in the last one week where several Bandits’ hideouts were destroyed as a result of various platforms deployed. And if this continues we will finish banditry soon
“We assure them of Federal Government readiness to continue to support them and their families. The end is near. We need maximum cooperation, intelligence and prayers from the public”, he noted.
The region has faced increased activities of jihadists often referred to “bandits”. With no clear cut ideology, they often abduct residents and traveller for ransom.
They have also been alleged to be engaging in looting farm produce and rustling cows from communities in the agricultural-rich region.
