Taraba State seeks NAF’s support to tackle insecurity

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Taraba State Government have agreed to work together to address the security challenges facing the State.

This was the outcome of a meeting between the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, and the Governor of Taraba State, Dr Kefas Agbu, at the NAF Headquarters on Friday.

Governor Kefas appreciated the NAF’s role in combating terrorism and insurgency in the northeast region, and solicited for its assistance in dealing with the threats posed by criminals and bandits in Taraba State.

He specifically requested for NAF’s intervention in patrolling the long and porous border that Taraba shares with Cameroun, which has been a gateway for criminal activities in and out of the State.

He also sought for NAF’s support in curbing the menace of terrorists and bandits within the State who have been terrorizing the citizens.

The Governor also briefed the CAS on his plans to reopen and upgrade the Suntai Airport in Jalingo, which he said would boost domestic flights, attract investors, and facilitate NAF’s operations in Taraba and beyond.

He also informed the CAS of his efforts to stop illegal mining activities in the State, which he said were linked to terrorism and banditry.

Air Marshal Abubakar commended Governor Kefas for his developmental initiatives, especially in the areas of agriculture, education, and skills development, which he said would create employment opportunities for the youths and reduce crime.

He also expressed delight on the Governor’s plan to reopen and upgrade the Suntai Airport, saying that it would enhance NAF’s air power capabilities in the region.

The CAS also lauded the Governor for signing an Executive Order prohibiting illegal mining activities in the State, saying that it would enable Taraba to harness its natural resources and discourage criminality.

He assured the Governor that NAF would collaborate with his Government in patrolling the border with Cameroun and providing security for Tarabans.

The CAS said that he was proud of Governor Kefas, who is a former NAF officer, and pledged NAF’s full cooperation and support until he succeeds in delivering good governance to his people.

The meeting was attended by some members of the Taraba State Executive Council and some NAF Branch Heads and Directors.