The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, has commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) over the rescue of seven Chinese mine workers in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State.

The spokesperson for NAF Headquarters, Edward Gabkwet, made this known in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to Mr Gabkwet, Mr Jianchun made the commendation when he paid a courtesy call to the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Oladayo Amao, at NAF Headquarters in Abuja.

He said the ambassador expressed his gratitude to the CAS for his leadership role, which had translated to the commitment of NAF operational forces to the counter-terrorism efforts.

Mr Jianchun also commended the high level of professionalism exhibited by the NAF Special Forces that undertook the rescue mission.

“From what I learnt, your Special Forces conducted themselves in the most professional manner worthy of praise and emulation.

“This was possible because of the right kind of leadership that the service and, indeed the Armed Forces of Nigeria currently have.”

In his remarks, Mr Amao intimated Mr Jianchun that NAF, alongside other security agencies in the country, remained committed to providing a peaceful and safe environment for both Nigerians and foreigners to thrive.

He added that the service would not rest until all areas in Nigeria were rid of terrorists and other criminal elements.

“Nigeria remains open to all foreigners who want to come and invest, and they can rest assured of their safety as we will continue to ensure that our country remains attractive for foreign investors.”

On December 17, 271 NAF Detachment, Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, carried out the rescue operation.

The operation led to the rescue of seven Chinese expatriates earlier kidnapped and held hostage by terrorists operating in the general Area.

The rescued Chinese victims were kidnapped in June by the terrorists while working on a mining site in Ajata-Aboki, Gurmana Ward of Shiroro Local Government in Niger.

(NAN)