What Fed Govt Do as Terrorist Occupy Kainji
By Dirisu Yakubu, Solomon Odeniyi, and Chika Otuchikere
The Federal Government has announced plans to enhance its anti-banditry operations with the procurement of 50 new aircraft, which are expected to arrive by next year. This initiative is part of efforts to strengthen security in the North-West and other parts of Nigeria as terrorists have taken over Kainji National Park in Niger State.
Air Marshal Bala Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff, revealed on Wednesday that the new air fleet would comprise 12 AH-1 attack helicopters, 24 M-346 attack aircraft, 12 Augusta Westland 109 helicopters, and two Casa 295 medium airlift aircraft. He made this announcement during the inauguration of new facilities at the 213 Forward Operational Base in Katsina State. The new facilities include a taxiway link, two aircraft hangars, operation and engineering buildings, a perimeter fence, and a football pitch.
Expressing gratitude to the federal and state governments for their support in combating banditry, Abubakar commended Nigerian Air Force personnel for their dedication to maintaining peace and security in the region. He emphasized the importance of intensified surveillance to prevent the resurgence of insurgent activities in Adamawa State.
Additionally, on Thursday, Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja received two newly acquired Bell UH-1H helicopters at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. These helicopters will be used for logistics, surveillance, training, and casualty evacuation. Lagbaja highlighted the Nigerian Army’s commitment to enhancing operational success and providing a safe environment for economic prosperity. He also noted the long-held aspiration to establish an aviation wing since 1984, which has now materialized.
Brig. Gen. M.S. Alkali, Coordinator of Nigerian Army Aviation, stated that the new helicopters would enhance the Army’s reconnaissance, surveillance, and air mobility capabilities. He emphasized the professionalism and dedication of the personnel operating and maintaining these machines.
A recent report by the Clingendael Institute, a Dutch think tank, indicated that Islamist terrorists from the Sahel region had crossed into Nigeria through the Benin Republic border, establishing bases in Kebbi State and Kainji National Park. In response, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, affirmed the military’s commitment to destroying terrorist threats across the country.
Despite efforts, the Kainji National Park has become a no-go area due to the presence of terrorists and bandits engaged in illegal activities. Locals and park staff have fled, and the insurgents, estimated to be about 1,000 men, are now terrorizing surrounding communities. Residents, such as Musa from Dekara community, have relocated to IDP camps, describing life in the camps as safer than in their terrorist-occupied communities.
The lawmaker representing Gurara/Suleja/Tafa Federal Constituency, Adamu Tanko, acknowledged the challenges posed by the terrorists and assured that both federal and state governments are working to dislodge them. He emphasized the strategic importance of the Sahel route and the vast landmass of Niger State, which complicates security efforts. Despite these challenges, Tanko expressed optimism about the government’s efforts to
address the issue.
