‘Era of banditry in Nigeria nearing its conclusion,’ Defence Minister assures citizens, commissions new helicopters

Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, has expressed optimism that the era of banditry in Nigeria is nearing its conclusion.

Speaking on Monday during the commissioning of two ATAK-129 Helicopters at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in Katsina State, the Minister noted the importance of synergy among troops, ground forces, and stakeholders in defeating the country’s enemies.

The newly inducted helicopters, deployed under Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 2, are tailored for precision strikes, offering an edge in combating bandits and other criminal groups.

Accompanied by Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, the Minister praised the dedication, courage, and sacrifice of the troops, whose efforts, he said, are already yielding positive results.

He highlighted the successes recorded in the past week, including the dismantling of multiple bandit hideouts, which have fostered a sense of security in affected communities.

The Defence Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability across the region, ensuring a prosperous future for all Nigerians.

“We salute you for the personal sacrifice you have been making, leaving behind your families and comfort of your homes to secure our collective future.

“We are grateful, we will remain committed to provide you and your families the necessary resources in ensuring that you receive the best incentives and other benefits.

“With the induction of these new critical platforms, and the quality of officers and men operating them, I am confident that it will make Nigerians proud. Together, we will dominate the battle space and achieve successful results.

“The unique set of the air components deployed, has capacity. It speeds, reaches, precision to ensure that no enemy can hide from justice. And the long arm of the law will reach those who want to destroy our peace.

“I urge you to synergize with ground forces and other stakeholders to ensure maximum effect. Be fast towards safer and strong Nigeria. Synergy must remain the watchword to enable us defeat the enemies of the country.

“I am satisfied with the recent efforts made by the troops. We have seen tremendous success in the last one week where several Bandits’ hideouts were destroyed as a result of various platforms deployed. And if this continues we will finish banditry soon

“We assure them of Federal Government readiness to continue to support them and their families.

“The end is near. We need maximum cooperation, intelligence and prayers from the public”, he noted.