Pre-Colonial Values and Modern Challenges: Air Force Chief Highlights Unity and Investigates Zamfara Airstrike Casualties
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has called attention to Nigeria’s deep-rooted history of unity, community, and innovation, which predates its colonial past. Speaking during the 2024 Base Socio-Cultural Activity (BASA) at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters in Abuja, he emphasized the need to celebrate the country’s rich heritage while addressing contemporary challenges.
Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted Nigeria’s pre-colonial civilizations, such as the Nok culture, Benin Kingdom, and Sokoto Caliphate, which embodied innovation, governance, and cultural excellence. He praised the armed forces as a microcosm of Nigeria’s diversity, uniting personnel from all ethnic, linguistic, and religious backgrounds.
“Our traditional attire, vibrant music, and festivals like the Durbar and New Yam Festival tell stories of our shared identity and resilience,” Abubakar said. He urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the warrior ethos of their ancestors while tackling modern security threats.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, echoed these sentiments, inviting citizens to visit military barracks to witness the unity that defines the armed forces.
Turning to recent developments, the Nigerian Air Force has launched an investigation into reports of civilian casualties during an airstrike in Zamfara State. The operation targeted bandit enclaves in Tungar Kara, Zurmi Local Government Area, successfully neutralizing several bandits and rescuing kidnap victims.
However, reports emerged alleging civilian fatalities during the operation. To address these concerns, Air Marshal Abubakar dispatched a fact-finding team led by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet to assess the situation and engage with state and local officials.
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The Nigeria Air Force (NAF) stated that while combating banditry and restoring peace remain top priorities, the safety and well-being of civilians are paramount. “We value every Nigerian life and will work closely with all relevant authorities to ensure transparency and accountability in our operations,” said Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information.
Commitment to Professionalism
Reiterating the NAF’s adherence to global operational standards, Abubakar assured that procedures would continually be refined to prevent harm to civilians and infrastructure. “Our absolute commitment to professionalism and transparency remains the cornerstone of our mission to ensure peace and security for all Nigerians,” he stated.
