The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to sustain their onslaught on terrorists, bandits, and other criminals troubling the country.

Mr Abubakar made the call when he received the newly deployed NAF commander in charge of the 119 Composite Group, Sokoto, Jane Gimo, on a courtesy visit on Tuesday in Sokoto.

He pledged the support of traditional rulers for successful operations and urged the NAF leader to tighten his belt and face the challenges, recognising that the region was being confronted with security challenges.

“No society can exist without challenges, but more needs to be done to restore lasting peace in the region,” he said.

He appreciated the significant strides made by the NAF in tackling banditry and other security challenges facing the nation.

He explained that more needs to be done to tackle insecurity-related crimes, so citizens can undertake their routine business and contribute to the nation’s growth and development.

Mr Abubakar further described NAF as a partner in progress in ensuring peace and stability in the country.

“The Sultanate Council ensures cordial working relationships with security agencies and others,” Mr Abubakar said.

Mr Gomu said the visit was to obtain royal blessing and solicit continuous collaboration with the Sultanate Council, as they were the custodians of all.

The commander said NAF would ensure swift airstrikes in coordinated military operations to tackle banditry, kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling, and other crimes across the country.

He pledged continued synergy with the Sultanate Council, the state government, and other sister agencies in safeguarding the lives of citizens, as well as continued efforts to dismantle criminals’ hideouts.

He thanked the sultan for his exemplary leadership and moral guidance to the armed forces.

He informed the Sultan of the NAF’s plans to relocate to its permanent location on the airport road in Sokoto.

He explained that the relocation would boost operational capacity, enhance air strikes, and improve support for ground troops engaged in counter-banditry operations across the region.

(NAN)