We’re building capacity of our men to achieve that – CAS
From: Sola Ojo, Kaduna
Minister of Transport, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, on Friday, described technology as key in fighting modern terrorism which Nigerian givernment must invest in now than ever before.
The Minister, who stated this while fielding questions from newsmen shortly after he attended the 46th convocation ceremony of the Air Force Institute if Technology (AFIT), in Kaduna, also advocated for improved budget line for Nigerian military to enable them improve on their technological advancement.
According to him, “What will need to do if I were to be in charge of budget is to improve on the budget of NAF and other military because it will reflect on the economy in the long run. All those dollars you see people spending on importing technology into the country will be within the country if we have invested enough into home grown technology capability and credibility.
“I am quite impressed with the technology innovations we just saw in display here at AFIT. These students came up with idea and fabricated those things. This means the Institute is doing wonderfully well as evident in these students which I think can always improve upon.
“If I can advice, I will suggest that we improve on the capacity of airmen and airwomen right from the institute. The world today is not about number of people you put in place, but your level of technology. One technology breakthrough can do the job of 1 million security men. What is key in the modern warfare is technology and we have to equip our military to do that more effectively.
“I am aware that you have project involving the design and production of a light trainer aircraft locally. With your pedigree, I have no doubt that you will accomplish these landmark projects and remarkable technological feats for the benefits of our dear nation.
“I know that you could not have achieved this much without the support, encouragement and leadership of the amiable and visionary Chief of Air Staff (CAS), who is also the chairman of AFIT governing council”, he added.
Declaring the convocation open earlier, CAS, Chairman of the Governing Council and Visitor of AFIT, Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar noted that the institute was already investing heavily on the capacity building of its workforce and even students especially within the past two years to enable it compete favourably with the rest of the world.
His words, “I am proud to state that these ideals that have help succeed to this point are in consonance with Mr President’s change mantra and upholding them have really enhanced the image of the Institute. I specifically want to commend the Commandant of the Institute for his commitment towards executing the Council’s decisions.
“This, undoubtedly, has been achieved because of his good sense of duty as well as the tremendous support he receives from all members of the Institute’s academic and non-academic staff. I equally appreciate the diligence of the Graduation Organising Committee in organising today’s event”.
CAS however reminded the graduating students that the Nigerian Air Force is currently increasing in size, scope of operations and sophistication in the application of technology based on which he implored them that, the knowledge they have gained in the past one or 2 years would definitely be put to task.