Hitting the Sky to Fight Economic Saboteurs
By Abdulsalam Mahmud
For years now, the combat operations of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have assisted the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in prosecuting the counter-insurgency and insecurity war from the sky.
However, beyond aerial bombardments, the Nigerian military also conducts air surveillance to forestall violent attacks on citizens and troops by terrorists and other well-armed criminal elements. This necessity underscores the importance of air surveillance for national security.
Air Chief Marshal Michael Wigston, Chief of the Air Staff of the Royal Air Force in the United Kingdom, noted in an interview two years ago that airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities are critical for ensuring that the military can monitor and respond to threats.
He highlighted this during heightened tensions between Russia and Ukraine, explaining that “air surveillance provides real-time data, which can prevent potential conflicts and acts of aggression.” He underscored that the integration of advanced ISR technology strengthens a nation’s ability to maintain control over its airspace and borders, ensuring both strategic and tactical superiority.
Similarly, Dr. Todd Harrison, a former Director of Defense Budget Analysis at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), highlighted the importance of air surveillance in modern warfare in an analysis following the 2021 conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. “The use of drones by Azerbaijan to achieve air superiority underscored the need for countries to invest in advanced air surveillance systems.
“Effective air surveillance can mean the difference between victory and defeat in modern conflict, as it enables real-time threat detection and response. Without it, even well-equipped ground forces can be rendered vulnerable to airborne threats.” Harrison’s comments emphasized that countries that fail to invest in advanced air surveillance risk falling behind in the ever-evolving landscape of warfare.
Several defense and security experts in Nigeria have also highlighted the significance of air surveillance. One of the experts, Air Vice Marshal Sani Ahmed (retired), a former Chief of Policy and Plans for the Nigerian Air Force, noted that advanced air surveillance technologies, such as drones and radar systems, are critical in addressing both insurgencies and illegal cross-border activities.
In the same vein, Rear Admiral Gabriel Okoi (retired), a security analyst, stressed that Nigeria’s air surveillance capacity must be expanded to effectively monitor its extensive borders, particularly in the northern and northeastern regions where Boko Haram and other insurgent groups operate. He suggested increasing investments in drones and satellite surveillance to improve Nigeria’s overall security.
This recognition of the essential role of air surveillance in maintaining security is also reflected in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) efforts to fortify its operations. Recently, the agency took a significant step toward strengthening its air surveillance capabilities with the acquisition of a Cessna Grand Caravan EX-208B.
Already, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), has inspected the newly acquired aircraft, currently stationed in Bartlesville, United States. The Cessna jet acquisition is a morale booster for the NCS airwing operations. The aircraft, registered as 5N-BAA, is set to enhance the Service’s air patrol and surveillance efforts.
Powered by the reliable PT6 Pratt and Whitney engine, the Cessna Grand Caravan is globally recognized for its rugged versatility, short-field take-off and landing capabilities, and ability to operate on remote airstrips—making it ideally suited for border security operations in Nigeria.
Adeniyi emphasized the importance of this acquisition, noting that the aircraft is fitted with the modern Garmin G1000 Avionics cockpit system, enabling operations under day, night, and low-visibility conditions. “This aircraft will be a game-changer for the Nigeria Customs’ Airwing.
“Its ability to carry 10 officers, coupled with its six-hour aerial endurance, will significantly enhance our capacity for air surveillance and border patrol,” he stated. The Cessna Grand Caravan will play a crucial role in air patrols aimed at detecting smuggling routes, deploying armed personnel, and providing swift support for ground operations.
“With this aircraft, we will strengthen our air border patrol capabilities, which will not only help us intercept illegal activities but also provide quick extraction support when necessary,” CGC Adeniyi further explained, aligning the move with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
Additionally, the aircraft will serve as a strategic asset for Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd, offering logistical support and revenue generation for the Service. Adeniyi underscored the cost-efficiency of the Cessna Grand Caravan, noting that its operational costs are relatively low compared to other aircraft in its class.
“This is a long-term investment for the Service that not only enhances our operational efficiency but also contributes to the sustainability of our air surveillance programs,” he added. Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, the Aircraft Operations Coordinator and Managing Director of Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd, lauded the acquisition as a milestone for the NCS aviation unit.
“With this aircraft, the Nigeria Customs Service is poised to revitalize its air border patrol activities, securing our borders more effectively and improving revenue generation for both the Service and the nation,” Capt. Mbaya remarked.
The acquisition of the Cessna Grand Caravan is expected to provide significant tactical advantages to the Nigeria Customs, tightening border security and sending a clear signal to economic saboteurs that the Service is better equipped than ever to combat smuggling activities.
It is pertinent to emphasize again that the acquisition of the Cessna Grand Caravan by the Customs absolutely signifies a transformative leap in the nation’s air surveillance capabilities. This investment not only enhances the operational efficiency of the NCS but also reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to securing its borders.
Without a doubt, robust air surveillance is increasingly vital as the threats of smuggling and other criminal activities persist. The Cessna’s advanced features will empower the NCS to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging security challenges.
By strengthening its air surveillance, the Customs Service is taking a crucial step toward safeguarding national security and economic stability. It is hitting the sky to fight economic saboteurs.
Mahmud, Deputy Editor of PRNigeria, can be reached via: [email protected].*
