NAF Fulfils Promise To The People Of Rukubi, Naarawa State, As Governor Commissions Community Clinic
By Century News
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has fulfilled its promise to the people of Rukubi, Nasarawa State, with the commissioning of a befitting community clinic constructed as part of efforts to atone for the tragic accidental airstrike of 24 January 2023. The newly built healthcare facility was officially inaugurated by the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr Abdullahi Sule, on behalf of the NAF, during a solemn ceremony that underscored a commitment to accountability, healing, and renewed partnership.
A statement sighed by the Director of Relations and Information NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, was represented at the event by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola. In his remarks, the CAS described the project as a symbolic and practical act of restitution aimed at improving the lives of Rukubi residents and strengthening civil-military cooperation. “It is in fulfilment of our promise to make amends that the Nigerian Air Force decided to build this clinic, with the intention of bringing healthcare closer to the people of Rukubi,” he said.
Air Marshal Abubakar also reaffirmed that NAF’s “constitutional mandate remains protecting the territorial integrity of the nation by air and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens”. He added that while undertaking this crucial mandate, “we are also deeply aware of our responsibility to the communities in which we operate and those we are sworn to protect by constantly reviewing our operations and emplacing measures to mitigate harm to civilians. When errors occur, as they regrettably did here, it is our duty to acknowledge them, learn from them and take meaningful steps to mitigate their impact and prevent future recurrence”.
In his remarks, Governor Abdullahi Sule commended the NAF for its humility, compassion, and commitment to rebuilding trust with affected communities. He acknowledged that while the pain of lives lost cannot be undone, the clinic represents a meaningful step towards healing and reconciliation. “This clinic is not merely a physical structure, it is a symbol of empathy, accountability, and renewed collaboration between the Nigerian Air Force and the people of Nasarawa State,” the governor said.
The ceremony concluded with prayers for continued peace, improved civil-military relations, and strengthened commitment to protecting civilian lives. As the clinic opens its doors to the public, it stands not only as a memorial to the past but also as a promise for a more compassionate and responsible future.
