By Amos Aar
THE NIGERIAN Air Force Tactical Air Command (TAC), Makurdi, has pledged to collaborate with the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare to promote child protection and women empowerment in the state.
The partnership was agreed upon during an advocacy visit on Tuesday by the Commissioner of the ministry, Mrs. Theresa Ikwue, to the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), TAC Makurdi, Air Vice Marshal Patrick Obeya.
Mrs. Ikwue, who led a delegation of officials from the ministry, said the collaboration would focus on awareness campaigns, capacity building, and empowerment programmes aimed at safeguarding vulnerable groups within the NAF Base and surrounding communities.
She stated that every child deserves to grow without fear and called for sustained efforts to ensure their safety, dignity, and access to opportunities. The commissioner also conveyed Governor Hyacinth Alia’s appreciation to the Air Force for its role in maintaining peace and security in the state.
Responding, Air Vice Marshal Obeya, said the Command was committed to supporting initiatives that promote the welfare of women and children.
He noted that TAC had continued to carry out community development and medical outreach programmes as part of its corporate social responsibility.
The AOC directed the Nigerian Air Force Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA) to liaise with the ministry to ensure effective implementation of the partnership.
Speaking on behalf of female personnel, Group Captain E.J. Alabila said the Air Force provides equal opportunities for women across all trades, while Mrs. Ruth Viashima, Secretary of NAFOWA, expressed the association’s readiness to work closely with the ministry.
Highlight of the visit was the presentation of gifts to the commissioner by the AOC, which he said was in line with the Command’s tradition of courtesy and goodwill.
