The Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, has presented Certificates of Occupancy to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, for lands earlier allocated to the Nigerian Air Force at the new Millenium City in Kaduna State.
Presenting the Certificates to the Air Chief on 3 June 2024 at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters, Governor Sani commended the CAS for his outstanding performance and his efforts at transforming the NAF into an "agile and resilient force” while also highlighting NAF’s air power roles in Operation WHIRL PUNCH, which has led to the drastic reduction in the frequency of attacks by terrorists and other criminal elements.
Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet in a press statement on Tuesday also noted that the Governor lauded the CAS for upgrading the 271 NAF Detachment at Birnin Gwari to a Wing status now to be known as 4135 NAF Wing, Birnin Gwari.
He said that his administration has allocated 10 operational vehicles to the NAF to enhance ongoing operations.
According to him, "The Nigerian Air Force is a vital partner in ensuring the safety and security of Kaduna State and we are committed to providing the necessary support and resources to enable the NAF effectively carry out its mandate and secure our communities."
Receiving the certificates, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar expressed utmost delight at Governor Sani’s presence, which, according to him, underscored the commitment of the Kaduna State Government to collaborate and support the NAF.
He also thanked the Governor for his kindness in approving the Certificate of Occupancy for the 2 parcels of land to the NAF, which he assured would be put to good use for the benefit of NAF personnel.
According to him, "We are grateful for all the support we have been receiving from the Kaduna State Government and I want to assure you that we will not rest until we rid Kaduna State and its surroundings of all criminal elements.
Air Marshal Abubakar also highlighted NAF's efforts to enhance its operations through the installation of new landing and navigational aids at the Military Airport in Kaduna. These, according to him, would increase the frequency of flight operations as well as improve ongoing operations.
The presentation of the Certificates of Occupancy marks a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the Kaduna State Government and the Nigerian Air Force, as they work together to address the security challenges facing the State and the nation.
Recall that in October 2023, the Kaduna State Government approved the allocation of a total of 88.840 hectares of land comprising 44.894 hectares and 43.746 hectares to the NAF at the newly carved out Kaduna Millenium City. The lands would be partly developed into a new NAF Base and majorly for construction of Post Service Housing Schemes for the NAF personnel.
