By Linus Aleke
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has cautioned personnel of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), against human rights abuses, admonishing them to ensure they respect and protect the innocent and law-abiding civilians they are trained to defend.
Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, in a statement said, the Air Chief gave this warning, while, reviewing the Passing Out Parade of 1,123 recruits of Basic Military Training Course 43/22, held over the weekend at the Military Training Centre, NAF Base, Kaduna.
He also, tasked the newly graduated recruits of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to be focused, motivated and innovative while contributing to NAF’s efforts towards achieving Nigeria’s national security imperatives.
This is even as the CAS, counseled the new recruits to take advantage of abundant training opportunities in the NAF to become proficient in their chosen specialties.
According to him, “Treat them with respect and protect their rights. By so doing, you will be discharging your professional and constitutional duties.
Remember also that the NAF undoubtedly expects the highest standards from you regarding civil-military Relations”.
While reminding them that they would be deployed to the various operational theatres to contribute their quota to national security, the CAS urged them to ensure they operate within the rules of engagement as enumerated in the code of conduct for Armed Forces personnel involved in internal security operations.
He also, reiterated the need for them to be disciplined and subordinate their personal interests to those of the service and the nation.
On the ongoing efforts to rid the nation of all criminal acts, the CAS counselled them not to allow themselves to be used by any subversive elements to destabilize the country.
“You must not succumb to any inducement or action that would cause disaffection amongst fellow members of the Armed Forces and remember that your duty is to protect all Nigerians, irrespective of their leanings or inclinations,” he concluded.
