The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Badaru

  • Badaru denies meeting Kwankwaso, reaffirms loyalty to APC, Tinubu

    Badaru denies meeting Kwankwaso, reaffirms loyalty to APC, Tinubu

    Former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has dismissed reports linking him to a purported recent meeting with New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) chieftain, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing the claims as false and misleading.

    In a statement by his Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Mati Ali, Badaru explained that the photograph circulating on social media, which allegedly suggested a recent meeting between him and the NNPP leader was an old image taken on February 18, 2023.

    Read Also: Badaru dismisses defection rumour, reaffirms loyalty to APC

    He said the photograph was when both leaders coincidentally met at the VIP Wing of an airport and not as a result of any arranged or political engagement.

    The statement explained the former Minister has been outside the country for over a month, making the alleged recent meeting impossible.

  • Badaru dismisses defection rumour, reaffirms loyalty to APC

    Badaru dismisses defection rumour, reaffirms loyalty to APC

    Former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has dismissed as false reports circulating on social media alleging that he is holding consultations to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    In a statement he personally signed, the former minister described the claims as baseless, speculative and a deliberate attempt to smear his reputation and undermine his political career.

    Badaru said the report was entirely unfounded and a product of political mischief, stressing that he has neither held nor authorised any discussion about leaving the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    “I wish to categorically state that the rumours making the rounds about my purported plan to defect from the APC are completely false and misleading,” he said. “They exist only in the imagination of their sponsors and should be disregarded by the general public.”

    Read Also: Badaru denies viral claim linking his resignation to alleged US, Tinubu bombing plot

    He reaffirmed his absolute and unwavering loyalty to the APC, noting that he is a founding member of the party and remains fully committed to its ideals, programmes and leadership.

    Badaru urged members of the APC and his supporters across the country to ignore the reports, assuring them that he has no intention whatsoever of leaving the party.

    “I remain a dedicated and loyal member of the APC and will continue to support the party in its efforts to deepen democracy and deliver good governance to Nigerians,” he added.

    The former Jigawa State governor further warned against the spread of unverified information on social media, calling on the public to always seek credible sources before accepting or sharing political reports.

    Badaru resigned his appointment as Minister of Defence on December 1, citing health reasons, a decision that was immediately approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Since then, he has largely remained out of the public glare, fuelling speculation that he has now firmly dismissed.

  • Badaru denies viral claim linking his resignation to alleged US, Tinubu bombing plot

    Badaru denies viral claim linking his resignation to alleged US, Tinubu bombing plot

    Former Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has dismissed as false and mischievous an online report alleging that he resigned because he “would not watch the United States and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu bombing Nigerian forests.”

    In a personally signed statement made available to The Nation, Badaru described the publication as “malicious, baseless and deliberately fabricated,” stressing that it did not originate from him or any authorised representative.

    The statement, titled Rejoinder: Categorical Denial of Malicious Publication Regarding My Resignation as Minister of Defence, noted that the story was crafted to smear his reputation and create unnecessary discord between him and President Tinubu.

    “The intent behind this fabrication is clear: to tarnish my hard-earned reputation, create unnecessary tension, and distract from the important work of governance,” he stated.

    Badaru reaffirmed that the real reasons for his resignation were officially communicated to President Tinubu and later published through credible media platforms. He further restated his loyalty to the President, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and his commitment to Nigeria’s peace and stability.

    “My unwavering support for the Renewed Hope Agenda remains intact. I am fully dedicated to the continued success of our great party, especially as we approach the 2027 general elections,” he added.

  • Insecurity: Badaru, Uba Sani, others call for unified security approach in northwest

    Insecurity: Badaru, Uba Sani, others call for unified security approach in northwest

    Northwest leaders have renewed the call for a unified and decentralized security architecture to confront the worsening insecurity in the region.

    They spoke on Saturday during the north-west session of the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on National Security Summit held in Kaduna.

    The summit, themed “Building Robust Regional Collaboration to Tackle Insecurity: Pathways for Securing the Future,” brought together senators, governors, traditional rulers, academics and security experts to review escalating banditry, kidnappings and cross-border criminality in the zone.

    Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, pushed for the establishment of a North-west Theatre Command to unify all military and security operations under a single operational structure. 

    He said only an integrated system rooted in community trust, cross-border partnerships and structural reforms could deliver long-term peace.

    He added a strong push for State Police, saying the national mood had finally aligned with what he had championed years earlier.

    According to him, “During my time in the Senate, I championed constitutional reforms to create State Police. I sponsored four major bills; SP 592, SP 594, SP 595 and others, aimed at decentralizing policing, strengthening oversight and modernizing law enforcement. These bills advanced, but at the time, we did not have full national consensus.”

    Governor Sani said the consensus now exists across the country, “today, virtually every governor agrees that progress is impossible without State Police,” he said. “Many states already rely on vigilante services, Sokoto, Katsina, Kano and others, but they remain ineffective because the law forbids them from carrying the weapons needed for self-protection. Sending them out unarmed amounts to a death sentence.”

    He insisted that State Police must be built on safeguards that prevent political abuse and preserve professionalism.

    “A new policing architecture must include an Independent State Police Commission, clear oversight mechanisms, professional standards and strict limits on political interference. This is the model I have advocated for years.”

    Beyond policing reforms, Governor Sani pressed for deeper regional synergy, saying that, “the North-west requires an integrated system that balances military effectiveness, community engagement and development. 

    The central component should be the creation of a North-west Theatre Command, bringing the Army’s 1 Division and F Division under a unified structure.”

    He also proposed permanent security committees at state and local government levels comprising traditional rulers, religious leaders, women’s groups, youth organisations, civil society and security agencies.

    The Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, stressed that the government was committed to a whole-of-society approach, warning that Nigeria cannot rely solely on military solutions.

    He said progress had been recorded with the reopening of major routes, activation of Forward Operating Bases and the return of displaced villagers, but more work remained to tackle bandits, terror cells and organized criminal networks.

    “The shield of the Armed Forces must be paired with the foundation of a Whole-of-Society Approach. National security cannot be achieved by the military alone; it requires the active participation of every citizen,” the minister said.

    Badaru commended governors for establishing complementary security outfits such as the Community Protection Guard in Zamfara and the Community Watch Corps in Katsina, describing them as effective force multipliers.

    He also acknowledged the role of traditional rulers, religious leaders, women, youth and civil society in mobilizing communities and strengthening resilience.

    Professor Muhammad Kabir Isa of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, identified governance deficits, poverty, unemployment and environmental stress as core drivers of insecurity. He called for a multidimensional framework that addresses the root causes alongside military operations.

    The summit resolved to establish a regional security collaboration mechanism for the North-west as part of broader national efforts to stabilise the country and entrench sustainable development.

    Earlier, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Senator Babangida Hussaini, said similar meetings had been held in other zones as a prelude to the National Security Summit slated for December 1, 2025, in Abuja.

    He described the initiative as evidence of the Senate’s sensitivity to Nigeria’s worsening security challenges and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to finding actionable and lasting solutions.

    Hussaini noted that the North-west’s security problems, from banditry and kidnappings to ransom-driven exploitation and humanitarian displacement, required a holistic and region-specific intervention.

    “This summit provides an auspicious opportunity to examine cross-cutting issues fuelling insecurity in the North-west and to suggest practical pathways toward lasting solutions,” he said.

  • Tinubu prioritising security for national growth – Badaru

    Tinubu prioritising security for national growth – Badaru

    President Bola Tinubu is prioritising security as the foundation for the country’s economic growth.

    This has informed his commitment to strengthening interagency cooperation among security and intelligence agencies, as well as providing the welfare and infrastructure necessary for them to function effectively.

    The Ministry of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, said this in Abuja, on Monday, at the 2025 Chief of Defence Intelligence Annual Conference, themed “Multi-Source Intelligence and Innovation in a Changing National Security Ecosystem.”

    The conference with the theme, “Multi-source Intelligence Innovation in a Challenging National Security Ecosystem”, was attended by senior defence intelligence officers, Nigeria’s Defence Attaches/Advisers in various countries, regional directors, and state coordinators.

    Badaru said Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the security and stability of the nation provided the strategic guidance to be “united in our resolve to reinforce our collective intelligence posture and safeguard the sovereignty of our dear country.”

    The Minister said the theme of the conference was both timely and compelling, as it spoke directly to the realities of Nigeria’s evolving security landscape, which he said has become increasingly dynamic and contested.

    According to him, Nigeria no longer confronts a single, predictable enemy, but faces adversaries who exploit technology, hide within civilian populations, manipulate communication networks, and operate across both physical and digital spaces with unprecedented speed.

    He said, “From terrorism, banditry and cybercrime to violent extremism and disinformation campaigns, today’s threats are multidimensional, rapidly evolving and often unpredictable. In this environment, technological superiority has become a decisive factor.

    “Threats are no longer defined solely by terrain or manpower, but by the speed, precision, and depth of actionable information. To stay ahead, our intelligence system must be driven by innovation, agility, and strategic integration.”

    He said that in line with the President’s interest, the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Headquarters have prioritized the development of a seamless intelligence operations integration framework, and will ensure real-time data flow between the DIA, the Service Headquarters, and operational theatres.

    While commending the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for the implementation of the Joint Intelligence Mission Data and Analytics System (JIMDAS), the integration of cognitive analytics, and the enhancement of cyber-monitoring capabilities, Badaru said these are not mere technological additions but true force multipliers.

    “When effectively synchronised, they strengthen operational responsiveness and empower commanders to make informed, intelligence-driven decisions that save lives and secure victories,” he said.

    The Minister said Nigeria would continue to maintain strong regional partnerships to enhance collective security in the West African subregion. He stated that this was because intelligence today transcends national borders, as adversaries coordinate internationally.

    He said, “As a leading nation in West Africa and the wider continent, Nigeria continues to advance defence intelligence cooperation with neighbours and allies.

    “We must persist in sharing intelligence on cross-border movements, collaborating on maritime security, and safeguarding critical infrastructure.

    “Our leadership in this space is both strategic and essential to regional peace and shared prosperity.”

    The Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Lt.-General Emmanuel Undiandeye, said the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) is intentional in its efforts to harness the capabilities of technology and human intelligence resources for the attainment of national security objectives.

    Gen. Undiandeye noted that Nigeria’s contemporary security environment remains dynamic and complex, with insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and organised crimes persisting across various theatres.

    The CDI added that while security services continue to demonstrate courage, professionalism, and resilience, the modern security landscape requires a multi-dimensional and multi-agency approach to intelligence collection, analysis, and dissemination.

    He said this underscores the need to deepen our understanding and integration of multiple intelligence sources – human, signal, open source, imagery, and data – to enhance institutional awareness and enable leadership decision-making.

    “Therefore, multi-source intelligence lies at the heart of our ability to anticipate, dictate, and neutralise emerging threats, integrating information from diverse domains: military, democratic, economic, technological, and socio-political, which enhances our capacity to generate actionable intelligence.

    “By leveraging innovations in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and interagency information sharing, we can achieve a unified national intelligence framework capable of supporting good strategies and operational-level decision-making.”

    According to the CDI, in line with this vision, the DIA has commenced several initiatives aimed at monitoring the intelligence landscape, which include: digitisation of the intelligence processes, enhancement of the special and cyber intelligence capabilities, and the establishment of specialised tax groups to foster collaboration with other intelligence and law enforcement agencies.

    These reforms, according to him, are designed to ensure that intelligence production remains timely, relevant, and comprehensive in addressing the demands of our national security.

    Gen. Undiandeye said the integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics into intelligence work is proven to be a transformative force globally, as the volume of information generated daily across digital and physical domains far exceeds the capacity of manual analysis; hence, the DIA is committed to embedding such technologies across its operations to achieve decisive advantage in both peace and comfort.

    He said, “Furthermore, the Agency continues to promote interagency synergy and regional cooperation, recognising that national security cannot be achieved in isolation, our defence advances and attaches play a vital role in advancing intelligence diplomacy and fostering partnerships with allied nations through active measures, intelligence exchanges, and joint training, which can strengthen Nigeria’s strategic posture and contribute to regional stability.

    Read Also: Tinubu battling political sabotage, not security failure — Kalu alleges

    “The threats confronting Nigeria and the wider sub-region are not limited to traditional warfare. Transnational organised crime cyber threats, misinformation, and other security challenges that demand a holistic approach abound.

    “This is why our commitment to multi-source intelligence innovations extends beyond technology that encompasses human capacity development, institutional reforms, and the cultivation of trust among stakeholders. And this is why the Defence Intelligence Agency is investing heavily in the training and the training of each personnel to enhance analytical proficiency and ethical standards.”

    The CDI said the DIA had commenced the use of Defence Intelligence Agency Technology Centre (DIATC), established last year, noting that the centre is responsible for conducting operations, utilising the latest working-age technologies and innovations.

    “It will focus on five key areas to include cyber security, artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, and data analytics, all of which are evolving new technologies,” he said.

    Gen. Undiandeye said the conference offers an opportunity to examine the evolving nature of threats confronting the country, review operational experiences, and strengthen cooperation between the DIA, defence advisors, counterparts across national and international security institutions, and the people.

    He added that the gathering also provides an avenue to harness the collective expertise of participants who are developing sustainable strategies to save Nigeria’s national interests.

    The CDI noted that the conference was an annual forecast of events, which allowed the agency to evaluate the activities of our defence sections as well as regional and state services. 

  • Yayale, Lalong, Badaru, others to speak at ABU alumni AGA next week

    Yayale, Lalong, Badaru, others to speak at ABU alumni AGA next week

    The Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria Alumni Association (Worldwide) has concluded arrangements for its 18th Annual General Assembly (AGA), scheduled to hold on November 28 and 29 at the university’s main campus in Zaria.

    The two-day event is expected to attract an impressive lineup of eminent personalities from across the country.

    According to the association, this year’s AGA will open with a Pre-AGA Lecture on November 28, chaired by Minister of Defence, Alhaji Muhammad Badaru Abubakar. 

    The keynote address will be delivered by former Plateau State Governor, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, who will speak on the theme, “The Role of Alumni in Promoting National Unity and Development.”

    Activities for November 29 will include the association’s general elections, cultural displays, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities aimed at strengthening bonds among alumni and reinforcing their contributions to the growth of the university.

    The AGA is also expected to serve as a platform for discussing revitalization strategies for ABU and enhancing alumni participation in national development.

    READ ALSO; Senate seeks fresh solutions to rising insecurity

    The association further disclosed that several high-profile dignitaries will grace the gathering. They include Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani; the Chancellor of ABU and Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe; the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Alhaji Yayale Ahmed; and the Emir of Zazzau, His Royal Highness Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli.

    It added that the Annual General Assembly is not only a convergence of ABU graduates but a celebration of the institution’s legacy, as well as an opportunity to reaffirm the collective commitment of alumni toward the development of both the university and Nigeria.

    The Alumni Association urged all members, friends, and supporters of ABU to attend the assembly, noting that the event promises to be enriching and impactful.

  • JUST IN: We’ll defend every officer on lawful duty, says Badaru

    JUST IN: We’ll defend every officer on lawful duty, says Badaru

    The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has assured that the Ministry of Defence and indeed the Military High Command will protect every soldier on lawful duty.

    The Minister gave the assurance while fielding questions from journalists during a ministerial press conference on the Armed Force Remembrance Celebration and Remembrance Day, 2026, at the National Defence College , Abuja, on Wednesday.

    The question came against the backdrop of Tuesday altercation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike, and a Navy Lieutenant AM Yerima, over development of a land in Abuja, which allegedly belong to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Gambo 

    Badaru said: “ Well, at the Ministry, and indeed the Armed Forces, we will always protect our officers on lawful duty. 

    “So we are looking into this issue, and we. assure that any officer on lawful duty will be protected highly, so we will not allow anything to happen to him so far he is doing his job, and he’s doing his job greatly well.”

  • Badaru reaffirms Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening institutions for good governance

    Badaru reaffirms Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening institutions for good governance

    The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has restated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening institutions under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the graduation lecture of Course 33 participants of the National Defence College, Abuja, on Monday, Badaru said the Tinubu administration is pursuing reforms, leadership appointments, and new frameworks deliberately designed to promote accountability, professionalism, and effective coordination.

    “In alignment with the President’s mission, the Ministry of Defence is focused on building systems that will outlast any administration and secure stability for future generations,” he said.

    The minister noted that the theme of the lecture, “Strengthening Institutions for Good Governance in Africa,” delivered by former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, speaks directly to Africa’s future. He stressed that weak institutions lead to national decline, while strong institutions foster growth, stability, and prosperity.

    Read Also: Governors, Badaru, Dangote, Otedola, others bid Dantata farewell

    “Strong nations are not built on strong individuals, but on resilient and accountable institutions,” he added.

    Badaru explained that while African nations have made efforts to promote good governance and institutional resilience, peace, security, and development require deeper cooperation and stronger systems.

    He maintained that Nigeria is ready to lead this push through domestic reforms and contributions to Africa’s renewal.

    Charging the graduating participants of Course 33, the minister urged them to embrace their leadership responsibilities, noting that their 11-month training had equipped them to think strategically, act decisively, and lead with dignity.

    “Your task is to strengthen the institutions you serve, for institutions only endure when leaders uphold fairness, accountability, and service to the people,” the minister said.

    The Commandant of the NDC, Rear Admiral James Okosun, in his opening remarks, said graduation lectures were a long-standing tradition of the College to provide an opportunity to engage distinguished leaders whose lives and service exemplify excellence.

    “It also serves to inspire and challenge our participants as they prepare to assume higher responsibilities within their services, ministries, departments, agencies, and other strategic institutions,” he said.

    He urged the participants of Course 33, as future strategic leaders, to appreciate the pivotal role that strong institutions play in delivering good governance, noting that “Without resilient institutions, there can be no enduring security or sustainable development.”

  • Sponsored allegation against Defence Minister Badaru won’t stand – NANS

    Sponsored allegation against Defence Minister Badaru won’t stand – NANS

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) said petitions by a political group, Young Guardians of Accountability (YGA), to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged abuse of office by Minister of Defence, who is also NANS National Patron, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar won’t stand.

    The association described the allegations as baseless and politically-motivated aimed at denigrating reputation of a noble statesman and patriotic Nigerian who has remained one of the most prominent and committed figures in public service. 

    A statement by NANS National President, Com. Olushola Oladoja said Badaru as Jigawa Governor maintained clean record, demonstrating accountability, prudence, and unwavering dedication to national service and effective utilization of state resources.

    According to the group: “As Minister of Defence, his performance has brought significant improvement to the nation’s security architecture. 

    “Today, major highways and former hotspots of violent crimes and kidnappings such as the Abuja-Kaduna road, Akure-Ondo axis, Owerri-Port Harcourt route, and others are experiencing relative peace and safety under his leadership and coordination of security actions. 

    “The results he has accomplished speak for themselves and annuls all forms of sponsored propaganda against his person and office.

    Read Also: NANS seeks Aiyedatiwa’s support for Ondo Police Command

    “We strongly advise young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of political unrest by desperate politicians with parochial interests and seeking cheap relevance. Being a tool for the destruction of another’s reputation is not only regrettable but detrimental to national development. 

    “As youths, let us protect the integrity of fellow compatriots who have distinguished themselves in their service to the country rather than become instruments of their sabotage.

    “Therefore, we urge the EFCC to treat the said petition with the contempt it deserves and focus its attention on matters of genuine national interest and anti-corruption efforts. Such baseless political blackmail must not be allowed to distract key players in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR’s, administration.

    “The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, remains a stabilizing force in this government. His undeniable accessibility and frequent engagement with youth stakeholders across the country have been instrumental in maintaining political stability and driving the Renewed Hope Agenda without distractions. 

    “We stand firmly with our National Patron and commend his unwavering service to our great nation. Therefore, we urge our Grand Patron to stand strong and remain steadfast and focused on his task of repositioning Nigeria’s security to address eminent threats and transforming society for the better.”

  • How NAF recorded successes against terrorists, by Badaru 

    How NAF recorded successes against terrorists, by Badaru 

    Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru said the combination of recently acquired air assets and platforms, the leadership and resilience of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel, as well as effective safety measures, have been instrumental in the successes recorded against terrorists and other non-state actors.

    Badaru said this on Wednesday, November 4, when he spoke as the Special Guest of Honour at this year’s NAF Operations, Training, and Safety Seminar in Abuja. 

    Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Kanna, the Minister said that the NAF had also made significant strides in its operations due to its emphasis on effective training and manpower development, which he said were testament to its commitment to excellence and its dedication to protecting the nation’s interests. 

    He said, “The leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff has been instrumental in the NAF’s success, and it is imperative to acknowledge his brilliant role in these achievements. 

    “The NAF’s ability to effectively utilize its recently acquired assets and platforms to combat terrorism and restore stability to the nation is a notable accomplishment. As you all know, the NAF’s successes can be attributed to its well-trained personnel, who operate with a strong emphasis on safety. This focus on safety is crucial, as it enables the NAF to maintain a high level of operational tempo while minimizing the risk of accidents and mishaps. 

    “It is noteworthy to mention that the North Eastern part of the country now enjoys relative peace and calmness owing to the selfless contributions and dedication of the men of the armed forces.”

    Badaru, however, noted that the successes wouldn’t have been possible if not for the NAF’s constant need to assess performances and identify shortcomings in its operational activities.

    He said: “I believe this is what gave birth to a forum like this, where we would rub minds and examine areas that require improvement. 

    “I am particularly impressed with the theme selected for this seminar, which is “Agile and Resilient Air Power for National Security: Enhancing Safety and Optimizing NAF Air Operations to Combat Emerging Threats”. It underscores the need to project air power in the face of national security imperatives while striving to operate within a safe environment.

    “As you all are aware, operations and training are interrelated. You cannot solely rely on one while paying less attention to the other. Indeed, the grassroots of every operational activity is training, not just training but quality and adequate training. A well-trained airman is a lethal weapon in the field of operations. Training serves as the factory that chums out the finished products that could be used for operational activities. Your work done in operations wit almost be zero if you cannot produce well-trained personnel. 

    “Similarly, operations is a crucial part of a fighting force such as the NAF. The current security dynamics of the country mandate the conduct of concurrent operational activities at all levels. So many operational theatres supported by air components have been launched in different parts of the country over the past 10 years. This implies that all hands will be on deck to ensure the successes of these operations. Quality training may not be enough to execute all missions successfully, you still need the knowledge of tactics and technical understanding of the imperative of war to succeed in the field, which is why this forum is necessary and very crucial to the NAF.”

    “Truly, some may argue that various training institutions are available to take care of that aspect, but I will tow a slightly different line by saying that while those institutions exist to serve as machinery for understanding the academics behind operations, on-field experiences as well as interactions with experienced people is essential to complement our knowledge base.”

    Read Also: NAF wings 28 combat pilots, honours war commanders, launches safety manual 

    The minister emphasized the significance of maintaining safety all in air operations, noting that safety was what binds operations and training together. 

    He said: “This Seminar is, therefore, crucial in aligning the NAF’s efforts to strengthen safety management practices, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of air operations. 

    “You may be receiving the best of training but in an unsafe environment. Similarly, you may be conducting your operations to the best of your competence and abilities but under unsafe conditions, which you may not even realise until a mishap occurs. 

    “And when you trace the source of this mishap, you discover that it may just be one very little thing that you have been neglecting. An unsafe environment or condition can potentially set you back many years behind.”