The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has issued a stern warning to bandits and other criminal elements operating in the country, particularly in the Northwest region, to either surrender their arms and embrace peace or face elimination.

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, delivered this ultimatum during his operational visit to the 213 Forward Operating Base in Katsina State, where he assessed the base's operational readiness and resource capabilities.

"From my assessment, bandits and other criminals are in for a very hard time. My advice to them is that they should surrender their arms and embrace peace; otherwise, in no time, they will be gone," Abubakar declared.

The Air Chief's visit also included the commissioning of three new projects executed as part of the celebrations marking the Nigerian Air Force's 61st anniversary. These projects align with NAF's ongoing infrastructural development initiatives aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness.

Abubakar highlighted significant changes in the military's approach to tackling insecurity in the region, noting that "Operation Hadarin Daji was transformed to Operation Fansan Yamma, which consequently led to deployment of more platforms."

He added that the Nigerian Air Force had constructed additional structures to accommodate personnel operating from Katsina as part of its commitment to enhancing welfare and operational effectiveness.

The Air Chief pledged continued support for officers and men of the Force, promising to provide necessary resources for effective performance of their duties. He also urged NAF personnel to maintain good relations with host communities and other security agencies while remaining law-abiding citizens and good ambassadors of the Force.

This development comes amid intensified efforts by Nigerian security forces to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of insecurity that have plagued parts of Northern Nigeria, particularly the Northwest region.

The Nigerian Air Force reiterated its commitment to working assiduously to restore peace and stability and enhance the safety and security of all Nigerians across the country.