Katsina Govt Commends Armed Forces, Says State Enjoys Relative Peace

The Katsina State Government has acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies in restoring relative peace to the state and other parts of the country.

The Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Garba-Faskari, made the acknowledgement on Saturday at the 2025 Base Annual Socio-cultural Activities (BASA) held at the Sports Complex of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) 213 Operating Base in Katsina.

Garba-Faskari said the improved security situation is a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of military personnel and sister security agencies in the ongoing fight against insecurity.

Commending the troops, he noted that despite the scope, nature, and complexity of the security challenges confronting the armed forces, they have continued to rise to the task.

“The current security challenges confronting the armed forces remain a major concern, especially in their scope, nature, and complexity. Surely, I know that you are capable and well-equipped to match the task,” Garba-Faskari said.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Commander of the 213 Forward Operating Base, Katsina, Air Commodore Chukwuedo Illoh, said the event was organised to mark the end of operational activities for the year 2025 and to reposition the base for the new year, 2026.

He explained that the celebration was also aimed at fostering unity among personnel and their families, while showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Illoh, who also serves as the Air Component Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 2, assured that the 213 Forward Operating Base remains committed to consolidating the security gains already recorded and maintaining a swift response to emerging security challenges within the state.

The Base Annual Socio-cultural Activities (BASA) is a yearly event marking the conclusion of a successful operational year for the 213 Forward Operating Base, Katsina.

The event promotes unity among Nigerian Air Force personnel, their families, and host communities, while strengthening civil-military relations.

Highlights of the event included cultural dance performances by Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo troupes, displays by hunters and horse riders, inspection of traditional dishes, and the ceremonial lighting of the campfire.