President Bola Tinubu yesterday urged Nigerians to stand united in the fight against terrorism and work for global peace and security.
Tinubu, according to a statement by the office of the Senate President, made the appeal in Abuja at a book launch on ‘Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism in North-east Nigeria: Emerging Perspectives and the Imperative of Airpower’.
The book was a research study sponsored by the Nigerian Airforce in collaboration with Babcock University.
Tinubu said, “Together, let us stand united against terrorism and work towards a future where peace, security and prosperity prevails in the North-east region of Nigeria, in Nigeria and the global community.”
Tinubu’s prepared text was read by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio who represented the President to formally unveil the book.
Tinubu said the book “represents a significant contribution to the understanding of one of the most pressing challenges of our time, the fight against terrorism.”
The President said the North-east region of Nigeria had been grappling with the scourge of terrorism for far too long adding that the brutal attacks committed by extremist groups had inflicted immense suffering upon very innocent people of that region and Nigeria as a whole.
“But amidst this darkness, there is hope. Hope that with true knowledge, understanding and the collective efforts of all stakeholders, we can overcome these challenges and restore peace and stability to the region and by implication to Nigeria,” the President said.
He said the book, which was authored by experts who had dedicated their lives to studying and analysing the complexity of terrorism and counter terrorism offered unique insights and perspectives.
“It delves into the root cause of terrorism in the North-east region, examines the evolving tactics and strategies employed by extremist groups and explores the roles of airpower in combating this menace.
“Airpower has emerged as a critical component in modern warfare and its significance in counter terrorism operations cannot be overestimated.
“The use of air assets such as drones, surveillance aircrafts and precision weapons have proven instrumental in gathering intelligence, disrupting terrorist networks and providing support to ground forces.
“The launch of this book is not just an academic exercise. It is a call to action. It serves as a reminder that we have a shared responsibility to fight against terrorism and protect the lives and liberty of our fellow citizens.
“By fostering partnership and fostering a deeper understanding of the complexity of terrorism, we can enhance our collective efforts to address this threat comprehensively.
“I will like to extend my appreciation to the authors for their tireless efforts in producing this remarkable book.
“Their dedication to shedding light on the challenges faced in the North-east and their commitment to finding solutions is very highly commendable,” the President said.
Tinubu also commended the invaluable support by the organisers and sponsors of the events particularly the Nigeria Airforce and Babcock University.
“Your belief in the power of knowledge and your commitment to fostering a safer and more secured world are truly inspiring,” he said.
The Senate President, on behalf of the Senate, launched the book with 10 million naira.
THISDAY
