The Nigerian Air Force has taken possession of two new
Russian Mi-35M fighter jets and will soon commence fresh aerial strikes on
Lagos creeks.
The new jets will, however, be inducted into the inventory
during the NAF anniversary next week.
Also, the six Nigerian pilots, training in Russia to fly the
fighter jets, would return to Nigeria on or before Friday.
A source in Abuja close to military hierarchy confirmed the
development to DAILY POST.
Already, operatives of military unit, Operation Awatse, are
being deployed as plans to launch an offensive on Isawo in the Ikorodu area,
get underway.
Recall that soldiers and policemen were killed on Sunday
after a gun battle with militants. It was gathered that the Defence
Headquarters, Abuja, has authorized the operation and residents around creeks
will start hearing bombs soon.
Director, Defence Information, Maj. Gen. John Enenche, last
week, urged the residents of Lagos and Ogun states to supply credible
information to the military.
He said, “The Operation Awatse by the Armed Forces is aimed
at curbing pipeline vandalism and petroleum products-related criminality with
negative socio-economic consequence for the country.
“It is ongoing. Surveillance is key to the success of the
military in this operation, which is based on accurate and timely intelligence.
In this regard, the general public around Lagos and Ogun states in particular
are very useful for more successes in this operation.”
By Wale Odunsi
