Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has called on the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to set up a permanent operational base in the state as part of efforts to confront the growing security threats in the region.
Governor Idris made the appeal while hosting the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi. The governor explained that the presence of a NAF base would strengthen the fight against terrorism and cross-border banditry that have recently plagued the once peaceful state.
He noted that Kebbi’s strategic position — sharing international boundaries with Niger and Benin Republic — makes it a frontline state in the country’s security architecture.
“We used to enjoy peace in Kebbi, but the situation changed with the infiltration of Lakurawa bandits from neighbouring countries. These attacks have become frequent, with perpetrators retreating to hideouts across borders after striking,” Idris lamented. He added that other criminal groups from nearby Sokoto, Zamfara, and Niger States also launch assaults on communities before escaping to their respective territories.
The governor stressed that Kebbi’s international airport offers a ready facility that could support the immediate establishment of an Air Force base, enabling swift deployment of personnel and equipment.
Highlighting his administration’s commitment to security, Idris revealed that 85 Toyota Hilux vehicles had been purchased and distributed to various security agencies operating in the state to enhance mobility and boost morale. In addition, as part of efforts to safeguard the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway project — in which Kebbi has a major stake — the government acquired another 20 Toyota Hilux vehicles for patrols to ensure the safety of engineers and construction workers.
Governor Idris maintained that securing Kebbi would not only benefit the state but also reinforce the security of surrounding states and safeguard Nigeria’s borders with neighbouring countries. He expressed appreciation to the Air Force for its prompt interventions, particularly during rescue operations, and urged for stronger collaboration going forward.
In his remarks, Air Marshal Abubakar underscored the strategic importance of Kebbi to both regional and national security. He explained that his visit aimed to assess the operational readiness of Air Force personnel in the state and to gain first-hand insight into their activities.
Abubakar praised the combined efforts of security agencies in maintaining relative peace in Kebbi and across the Northwest, but warned that sustainable development could only be achieved in a safe environment. “Peace is the foundation of any meaningful progress,” he said, adding that the Air Force looks forward to working more closely with the Kebbi State Government to ensure the region remains secure.