Gov. Alia Commends NAF Pilot For Precautionary Landing In Benue

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its professionalism after one of its pilots made a precautionary landing about 10 nautical miles from the airfield in Makurdi.

The development occurred after the Air Force provided air support to ground troops during an operation targeting suspected kidnappers in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue State, near the Enugu-Benue boundary.

According to a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, on Saturday, the operation disrupted the activities of suspected criminals and supported the advance of ground forces.

The statement said the pilot made the precautionary landing while returning to base, in line with established operational and safety procedures.

“Governor Hyacinth Alia commends the Nigeria Air force for its professionalism, as was demonstrated by one of their pilots, who exercised his professional discretion to execute a precautionary landing approximately 10 nautical miles from the airfield in Makurdi,” the statement read.

The governor also praised the Air Force for its continued efforts to tackle insecurity in the state, describing the operation as a demonstration of the military’s resolve to confront criminal groups.

He described the operation as “a demonstration of the military’s determination to confront criminal elements and restore peace to troubled communities.”

Alia said the development offered renewed hope to residents affected by insecurity and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with security agencies to address the challenges facing the state.

The governor acknowledged the risks faced by military personnel, praising their courage, commitment and professionalism in supporting ground troops and protecting public safety.

He also assured the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies of the state government’s continued support in the fight against criminality.

According to the statement, Alia emphasised that sustained collaboration among security agencies was essential to protecting lives and property, containing criminal activities and enabling displaced residents to return to their communities without fear.

The governor urged security formations to remain relentless in their operations until criminal groups could no longer terrorise communities or disrupt the livelihoods of residents.

He also called on residents to support security operations by providing useful information to the authorities.

The statement quoted the governor as stressing the need for “credible and timely information to security operatives,” adding that the fight against insecurity required collective responsibility.

Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to working with the military and other relevant authorities to achieve lasting peace and security across Benue State.