GOODWILL MESSAGE BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE, HIS EXCELLENCY (DR.) ABUBAKAR BUKOLA SARAKI, CON, AT THE NIGERIAN AIR FORCE POWER SEMINAR 2018, HELD AT THE NIGERIAN AIR FORCE OFFICERS MESS, KADO, ABUJA ON NOVEMBER 19-21, 2018.
PROTOCOL.
1. It is a pleasure to be at the maiden edition of the Nigerian Airforce International Air Power Seminar 2018. The Nigerian Air Force, one of our foremost security institutions, continues to work tirelessly to preserve the fundamental rights of all Nigerians, particularly the protection of life and property. I commend the organisers of this 3-Day event, which is so needed, given the security situation in our country at this time.
2. Intended as a dialogue between various stakeholders on improving the architecture of the Nigerian Air Force, this event is another indication of the commitment of our security forces to achieving sustainable peace in Nigeria. An initiative such as this, which facilitates national and international cooperation among security agencies, not only fosters intelligence gathering and dissemination, it also promotes best practices on combating insurgency. This is very commendable indeed.
3. The theme of this seminar, ‘Air Power in irregular Warfare: A Framework for Understanding and Responding,’ is a most engaging one. The current security challenges, though particularly devastating in their impact on the North East of Nigeria, are also witnessed in varying degrees across the country. No efforts can be spared in seeing to the end of these difficulties which pose a serious impediment to national development.
4. As the threat to our national security mutates into new forms of irregular warfare and endangerment, so also must the sophistication of our internal security operations. We must stay well ahead of the terrorists in our counter-insurgency manoeuvres and strategies. I therefore welcome this forward-thinking Seminar, which aims to proffer practical solutions on neutralising the threat.
5. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, one cannot be oblivious to the negative socio-economic impact of insecurity. The Displacement Matrix of the National Population Commission (NPC) has identified over 1.7 million Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in over 320 thousand households in the North-East region alone. These include out-of-school children exposed to the harsh conditions of an unsettled childhood. Talented young people denied opportunities for self-development in order to contribute their quota to society, adults unable to earn a living to care for their families, people without access to basic healthcare facilities or education – are in the ranks of the displaced. We must tackle the insurgency, in order to restore these people to their normal lives.
6. We, therefore, rely greatly on the brave men and women of the Nigerian Air Force, and other security agencies, to protect and defend our country- knowing that you will not fail. We have witnessed the stellar efforts of the Counter Insurgency Operations (COIN); and just last week, the Air Task Force air strikes on Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State. I commend the continued efforts of security operatives in tackling the terror threat. Your upgraded methods of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, demonstrate a willingness to utilise effective methods required for combating insurgency.
7. I am aware that we have here today eminent security experts engaged in COIN operations – ready to help expand the expertise of the Nigerian Air Force and scale up efforts in air power application. Let me take this opportunity to call on all present to ensure your submissions are robust and remain sensitive to the human aspects of warfare. As we discuss tactics, so must we consider human rights, equity and an overall strategy that takes account of the recovery plan of the affected areas.
8. As you all know, the 2019 General Elections are imminent. I urge you to remain steadfast and vigilant in attending to your core duties, before and after the elections. We must guard against insurgents who would seek to undermine our democracy.
9. In closing, I wish to express my profound appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force, and other security institutions, for their tireless efforts in defending our nation. No doubt, the outcomes of this Seminar will contribute in no small measure to ensuring peace and security. It is only by safeguarding lives and property that citizens can truly begin to reap the dividends of democracy. I wish you a successful Seminar.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE
