Governor Hyacinth Alia has commended the Nigerian Air Force for its professionalism, following an incident in which one of its pilots exercised professional discretion to execute a precautionary landing approximately 10 nautical miles from the airfield in Makurdi.
The Nigerian Air Force had successfully provided close air support to surface forces during an operation targeting suspected kidnappers in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue State, near the Enugu-Benue boundary. The operation disrupted the activities of the criminal elements and supported the advance of surface forces. It was on their way back to base that, in accordance with established operational and safety procedures, the pilot carried out the precautionary landing.
The Governor further appreciated the NAF for its continued efforts to combat insecurity in Benue State. He described the operation as a demonstration of the military’s determination to confront criminal elements and restore peace to troubled communities. He noted that the development offers renewed hope to residents affected by insecurity and reassures the people of Benue of his administration’s commitment to working with security agencies to address the challenges confronting the state.
Governor Alia praised the courage, commitment and professionalism of NAF personnel in supporting ground troops and confronting threats to public safety. He acknowledged the risks undertaken by officers and men of the Service, describing their sacrifices as vital to the collective effort to secure Benue State and the country at large.
He assured the Nigerian Air Force of Benue State’s continued support, alongside that of other security agencies, in the fight against criminality. He emphasised that sustained inter-agency collaboration is essential to protecting lives and property, containing criminal activities and creating conditions for displaced communities to return home without fear.
The Governor urged all security formations to remain relentless until criminal groups can no longer terrorise communities or disrupt the livelihoods of innocent citizens. He also called on residents to support ongoing security operations by providing credible and timely information to security operatives, stressing that the fight against insecurity requires collective responsibility.
He reiterated his administration’s resolve to work with the military and other relevant authorities to achieve lasting peace and security across Benue State.
