The Nigeria Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to intensify surveillance and reconnaissance flights over the South-South region airspace, with particular focus on sensitive areas that are difficult to access by other security agencies.
Air Vice Marshal Sunday Anake, the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Mobility Command of NAF, Yenagoa, made this announcement during a courtesy visit to Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu in Calabar.
The increased aerial surveillance comes in response to an appeal by Cross River State Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Odey, who represented Governor Otu during the visit. Dr. Odey highlighted challenges faced by the Nigerian Navy in accessing certain creek areas due to narrow tunnels.
"The Nigerian Navy is finding it difficult to access some of the creek areas due to narrow tunnels. We believe a bit of air intervention, which only you can provide, will help us fully secure these zones," the Deputy Governor stated.
The Deputy Governor also acknowledged recent joint security operations, including successful efforts to clear criminal elements from waterfront areas. He pledged the state government's commitment to deepening their partnership with the Air Force to strengthen security across the state, particularly around strategic infrastructure and high-risk zones.
In addition, Dr. Odey promised government support for upgrading the Air Force Primary School in Calabar, describing it as a necessary investment in quality education for both military and civilian children.
Air Vice Marshal Anake assured the state government of the Air Force's unwavering commitment to security in the region, stating, "Our mission is clear: any time, any weather, just give us a knock and we'll respond with military precision. We are here not just to take from government, but to give full cooperation."
This development represents a significant boost to security operations in the South-South region, particularly in areas where geographical challenges have previously limited effective surveillance and intervention by ground forces.
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