The Chinese Government on Wednesday commended the Nigerian Air Force for rescuing seven of its citizens who were kidnapped by bandits in Kaduna State.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mister Cui Jianchun expressed his country’s to the Air Force during a visit to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Commodore Edward Gabkwet.

He said the Chinese Ambassador was grateful to the Chief of Air Staff for his leadership in the counterterrorism efforts across the country.

Jianchun noted the high level of professionalism exhibited by the NAF Special Forces that undertook the rescue mission.

“From what I learnt, your Special Forces conducted themselves in the most professional manner worthy of praise and emulation,” he stated.

“This was possible because of the right kind of leadership that the Nigerian Air Force and indeed the Armed Forces of Nigeria currently have.”

On his part, the Chief of Air Staff said the Nigerian Air Force alongside other security agencies in the country is committed to providing a peaceful and safe environment for both Nigerians and foreigners to thrive.

He said the security agencies in the country will not rest until all areas are rid of terrorists and other criminal elements.

“Nigeria remains open to all foreigners who want to come and invest, and they can be rest assured of their safety as we will continue to ensure that our country remains attractive for foreign investors,” Amao said.

The 271 NAF detachment, Birnin Gwari in Kaduna State had carried out an operation in the early hours of Saturday, December 17 in which seven Chinese expatriates held hostage for more than six months by terrorists were rescued.