In the wake of the unfortunate airstrike on January 11, 2025, in the Dangebe community of Zamfara State, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, visited Gusau on Thursday to express his profound condolences to the Zamfara State Government. The incident, which occurred in the Maradun Local Government Area, resulted in the unintended deaths of 11 members of a local vigilance group near Gidan Makera in Zurmi Local Government Area. These individuals were tragically misidentified as bandits fleeing precision strikes conducted by the Air Component of Operation Fansar Yamma.

During his visit, Air Marshal Abubakar met with Governor Dauda Lawal to convey his sympathies and to personally address the situation. He described the airstrike as regrettable and assured the governor and the people of Zamfara that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is fully committed to preventing such errors from recurring. He emphasized the NAF's dedication to working closely with the state government to bolster security in the region and to ensure the protection of civilian lives during air operations.

In a tangible demonstration of support for the victims and their families, the Nigerian Air Force has provided financial assistance to those affected. Additionally, the NAF has pledged to rebuild the buildings destroyed in the incident and to replace the two motorcycles that were lost. These measures underscore the Air Force's commitment to rectifying the harm caused and to supporting the community in its recovery.

Air Marshal Abubakar also detailed the steps the Air Force is taking to prevent future occurrences of this nature. He reaffirmed the NAF's unwavering commitment to precision in its air operations and to the protection of civilian lives, highlighting that measures are being implemented to enhance accuracy and minimize the risk of unintended harm.

Governor Dauda Lawal acknowledged the crucial role of the Nigerian Air Force in combating banditry in Zamfara and the broader Northwest region. He appealed to the NAF to consider establishing a permanent base or an Air Force hangar in the state upon the completion of the Gusau International Airport. This, he noted, would significantly enhance the Air Force's operational capabilities and its ability to respond swiftly to security threats in the area. The governor emphasized that Zamfara remains a hub of banditry, necessitating a stronger military presence to effectively tackle the prevailing security challenges.

Governor Lawal assured Air Marshal Abubakar of his administration's unwavering commitment to supporting security agencies in their fight against insurgency and banditry. He commended the Air Chief for the immediate measures taken to assist the victims of the January 11 airstrike, including the provision of financial support, the reconstruction of damaged buildings, and the replacement of lost property. These actions, he noted, reflect the Air Force's genuine concern for the welfare of the people of Zamfara.

In a significant gesture of support, Governor Lawal formally presented the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for a new Air Force base to Air Marshal Abubakar. This underscores the state government's commitment to continuous collaboration with the NAF and other security agencies to enhance security in the state. The establishment of an Air Force base in Zamfara is expected to significantly strengthen counterinsurgency operations, improve rapid response capabilities, and enhance overall security in the region.

Governor Lawal reiterated his administration’s firm stance against negotiating with bandits, emphasizing that this approach is yielding positive results as peace gradually returns to Zamfara. He expressed gratitude for the Air Force's prompt responses to distress calls in volatile areas across the state, further highlighting the importance of their continued collaboration in maintaining security and stability.

In closing, both Air Marshal Abubakar and Governor Lawal reaffirmed their commitment to working together to address the security challenges in Zamfara State and to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. The visit served as a powerful demonstration of solidarity and a renewed commitment to совместной efforts in the fight against banditry and insurgency.