COAS Tasks Army Aviation to Intensify Offensive, Eliminate Bandits, Terrorists
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has directed personnel of the Nigerian Army Aviation to intensify offensive operations against bandits and terrorists, urging them to deploy the full capabilities of air power to eliminate criminal elements threatening Nigeria’s security.
General Shaibu gave the charge on Tuesday during the inauguration of the Coordinator’s Residence and newly constructed accommodation for officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army Aviation at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, Abuja.
The Army Chief described air power as a critical component of modern warfare and counter-insurgency operations, noting that the Nigerian Army Aviation has become indispensable in intelligence gathering, troop mobility, medical evacuation and precision strikes against terrorists and other armed groups.
He charged aviation personnel to dominate the airspace and deny criminal elements the freedom to operate.
“Your platforms must be used to dominate the airspace and deny bandits and terrorists freedom of action. I challenge you to ensure the total annihilation of these enemies of the state so that Nigerians can live in peace,” the COAS said.
Read Also:
Lieutenant General Shaibu explained that the provision of new accommodation for Army Aviation personnel was in line with the Nigerian Army’s “Soldier First” policy, which prioritises the welfare of personnel as a means of enhancing morale, professionalism and operational effectiveness.
He urged the beneficiaries to reciprocate the investment through renewed commitment and outstanding performance across all theatres of operation.
The COAS also commended the Directorate of Procurement for the timely completion of the housing project and reaffirmed the commitment of Army Headquarters to strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army Aviation through the provision of modern equipment, improved infrastructure and sustained logistical support.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Coordinator of the Nigerian Army Aviation Command, Brigadier General Al-Amin Ibrahim, expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for his commitment to personnel welfare and the development of the Aviation Command.
He said the commissioning of the residential facilities reflected the COAS’ visionary leadership and deliberate efforts to build a highly professional, welfare-driven and operationally effective Nigerian Army capable of addressing the country’s evolving security challenges.
Brigadier General Ibrahim assured the Army leadership that personnel of the Nigerian Army Aviation would remain committed to supporting ongoing military operations and delivering on their constitutional responsibility of defending the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting the lives of citizens.
By PRNigeria
