The Nigeria Air Force has expressed readiness to partner with Bayelsa government in combating crime in the state, promising to strengthen what it described as Civil-Military relationship in the oil rich Bayelsa state.
This is just as Governor Seriake Dickson commended the efforts of the security outfit at ensuring peace in the state.
The new Air Officer Commanding, Air Vice Marshal Olufemi Idowu, said this became imperative in order to foster good working relationship between his men and the civil populace and as well ensure adequate security of life and property.
Also, he disclosed that the command has approved the conduct of tactical operations in the state as earlier requested by the Governor, explaining that the exercise would not only enhance the professional competence of the Command’s personnel but also help it draw up planning guide to prepare for emergency situations like flood.
Responding, the Governor said that the presence of the Air Force would not only complement the efforts of other security agencies in maintaining peace and security but also provide support services to government particularly in the education and health sectors.
According to the Governor, the State Government eagerly awaits the establishment and take-off of command schools and hospitals run by the Air Force in the state.
Describing the Nigerian Air Force as a critical element in national defence, Governor Dickson reaffirmed his administration’s determination to support the Mobility Command to enable it perform its duties effectively.
Sequel to an application by the Air Force, he said government has already allocated a large expanse of land to it and the Air Force Holding Limited as part of collaborative efforts in the building of critical infrastructures such as housing estates in the state.
Governor Dickson lauded the efforts of the out-gone Air Officer Commanding, Air Vice Marshall John Aprekuma and men of the command particularly during the flood disaster and wished him well in his future endeavours.
He expressed the hope that the new commanding officer would bring his wealth of experience to bear on the operations of the command and strengthen the existing cordial working relationship between the state government and the Air Force.