As part of efforts to strengthen security of the nation’s North-West borders, the Nigeria Air Force is to reactivate the forward operation base in Sokoto, which was closed as a result of rationalization in 1992.


The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Muhammad Dikko Umar   disclosed this in Sokoto when he paid a courtesy visit on the state governor, Alhaji Aliyu Wamakko at Government House.


He stated, “with the situation in the world today, the very serious menace of non-state actors in the world, particularly the Al-Qaeda and other non-state actors, we found it extremely necessary to ensure that our North-West border is secured to allow the citizens of Nigeria enjoy security and peace.”

Air Marshal Umar said   the base in Sokoto which would be a detachment for now, would be built up to become a full base in years to come.

According to him, the reactivation of the Air Force base was because Sokoto is a border state adding that when reactivated, it would provide quick response to emergency and improve internal security in Nigeria.

He stressed the need for Nigeria to strengthen its security base nationwide to check prevailing security challenges.

The Air chief said his vision on assumption of office was “to position the Nigeria Air Force for sustained employment of air power to meet the national defense imperatives as well as to provide swift response capability for emergencies and internal security challenges.”

He added “that position also became apt for us to reactivate forward bases, like this in Sokoto.”

In his remarks, Governor Wamakko said it was a collective duty to provide the needed security for national peace and unity.

        SUNDAYTRUST NEWSPAPER

Toothless bulldogs

give them time

Really odd, considering that the threat lies in the Northeast right now. The only explanation is that this is a desperate attempt to acquire some of our airborne military assets in this time of turmoil, in case the Boko Haram debacle leads to Nigeria's eventual break up.

Ihejirika needs to be on the ball to move as many army assets down south as he can, citing insecurity and apparent collaboration from Muslim officers with BH. He also needs to keep a close watch on his Northern Muslim Brigade Commanders. Look what happened to Ironsi. If he allows history to repeat itself, he must be a darn fool.

djustice:

Really odd, considering that the threat lies in the Northeast right now. The only explanation is that this is a desperate attempt to acquire some of our airborne military assets in this time of turmoil, in case the Boko Haram debacle leads to Nigeria's eventual break up.

Ihejirika needs to be on the ball to move as many army assets down south as he can, citing insecurity and apparent collaboration from Muslim officers with BH. He also needs to keep a close watch on his Northern Muslim Brigade Commanders. Look what happened to Ironsi. If he allows history to repeat itself, he must be a darn fool.

I get your point but dont forget that obasanjo had already divide the military might, not like back in the days all the military apparatus will be in kaduna barrack he made sure that he move most of our military might to south 82 division enugu military barrack in Lagos etc that's how Hausa lost most of their military power,it will be difficult for them to succeed

What threat is imminent or predicted for NW that triggered the relocation?

the Chad/Sudan/Somalia threat is very real than any in the NW corridor.

If the Air force boss can think that far strategically, then he must also be aware that domestically there are voices speaking out against a blanket Sharia jurisprudence for the nation.

It is nothing but a contingent deploy to create security shield wall for the Caliphate against the far reaching intent of those voices.

I thought Borno Boko Haram is in the North east