Anti-terror War: California National Guard To Assist NAF On Equipment Acquisition, Training

The California National Guard (CNG) has reaffirmed commitment to enhance the existing partnership between it and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in the areas of equipment acquisition and training to execute the ongoing campaign against terrorism in Nigeria and across Africa.

The Adjutant General of the CNG, Major General Matthew Beevers, who stated this when he paid a courtesy visit to Headquarters NAF in Abuja on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, also emphasised the pivotal role of the NAF as an important strategic ally in the global effort against terrorism.

Speaking further, Major General Beevers expressed the readiness of the CNG to assist the NAF in equipment acquisition and training, which will go a long way in bolstering its effectiveness in ongoing counterinsurgency and counterterrorism operations in the country.

A statement signed by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, on Thursday, said while responding, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, conveyed NAF’s unwavering dedication to combating terrorists and criminal activities within Nigeria.

He also affirmed NAF’s willingness to strengthen its collaboration with the CNG and other strategic partners to address the treats of terrorism and insurgency in the country.

Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde, the CAS also stated that the commitment for a revitalised working relations by Major General Beevers represented a positive stride in strengthening international cooperation, aligning with a key aspect of his Command Philosophy that underscores the need for enhanced strategic partnerships.

In closing, the CAS extended gratitude to the CNG as well as the United States (US) Government for their consistent support to the NAF.

Major General Beevers was accompanied by Mr Joseph Kraus, who is the Political-Military Officer at the US Embassy in Abuja, Lieutenant Colonel Megan Stromberg, the Women, Peace and Security Representative at the CNG, Command Sergent Major Kristin Caldwell of 340th Brigade Support Battalion as well as staff of the US Embassy Defence Section.