The Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, attended this year’s CAS Christmas Launcheon on December 25, 2023, at the Headquarters Air Component JTF (NE) Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri.
Representing Gov. Zulum, Prof. Usman Tar, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, participated in the event hosted by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshall HB Abubakar, to celebrate Christmas with Air Force personnel deployed for Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK).
The BOSG delegation, led by Prof. Tar, included officials like Hon. Sugun Mai Mele, Hon. Sainna Buba, and Engr. Mustapha Gubio.
During his welcome address, Air Marshall Abubakar expressed joy in joining the celebration, emphasizing the significance of Christmas as a time to share love.
He appreciated the troops for their selfless service, prayed for the fallen heroes, and highlighted the NAF’s efforts in the fight against terrorism, underscoring the acquisition of new fighter jets to strengthen the fight.
Air Chief Abubakar extended special thanks to President Tinubu, Defense Ministers, Chief of Defense Staff, Governor Zulum, and the Shehu of Borno for their leadership and support to the air force.
Gov. Zulum, in his address to the troops, conveyed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing security.
He thanked the Armed Forces for their sacrifices against violent extremism, expressing commitment to collaborate for the eradication of Boko Haram remnants. He assured continued investment in non-kinetic approaches to end insurgency in Borno State.
Prof. Tar conveyed Gov. Zulum’s Christmas message to the Christian community, emphasizing unity in the face of challenges.
The governor pledged to remain fair and focused on humanitarian needs, discouraging attempts to divide along religious lines.
“As Governor of Borno State, I pledge not to be distracted and I pledge to remain fair with the guiding principle of considering the urgency of humanitarian needs as they affect communities in all our continued responses across Borno State.”
The event featured a unity dance by the Borno State Cultural Troupe, a display of NAF special force tactics, press-ups by the CAS and uniformed officers, concluding with a group photograph.
