The Commander of the 013 Quick Response Force (QRF), Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Minna, Niger State, Group Captain Henry Eze, has called for stronger synergy in joint operations, particularly in the fight against banditry in Niger State. He made this call during a courtesy visit to the Headquarters of Training and Doctrine Command, Nigerian Army (TRADOC NA), Minna, on Wednesday, 18 September 2024, where he met with the Commander TRADOC NA, Major General Kevin Aligbe.
Group Captain Eze expressed his gratitude to Major General Aligbe for the longstanding collaboration and support that TRADOC NA has extended to the Nigerian Air Force over the years. He emphasised the need for increased cooperation to enable the NAF to fulfil its operational duties across the state effectively. “It is customary and in line with military tradition that commanders and commanding officers, upon assuming command, pay courtesy visits to critical stakeholders within their Area of Responsibility (AOR) to foster improved operational collaboration and coordination of military activities,” he remarked.
The Commander 013 QRF praised Major General Aligbe as one of the most respected senior officers in the Nigerian Armed Forces, possessing vast knowledge and experience. He expressed his intention to consult with Major General Aligbe for strategic guidance as needed, recognising the significance of such collaboration for operational success.
In response, Major General Aligbe reassured Group Captain Eze of TRADOC NA’s unwavering support in areas such as training, conferences, workshops, operational engagements, and other capacity-building initiatives. He also commended the NAF for its role in mentoring and training pilots for the Nigerian Army Aviation. He highlighted the recent collaboration during the testing of the newly procured platforms for the Nigerian Army Aviation in Minna, in which the QRF played an integral role.
Major General Aligbe further acknowledged the NAF Minna’s contributions to all TRADOC NA simulation exercises and operational engagements, urging Group Captain Eze to maintain and strengthen the already established synergy between TRADOC NA and the 013 QRF.
The visit concluded with the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph, symbolising the strengthened relationship between both commands.
SANI UBA
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations
Training and Doctrine Command, Nigerian Army