By Victor Akaa.
In a significant development, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa has taken over as the new Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), succeeding Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet who has been deployed to the Civil Military Department as a Director.
The handing and take-over ceremony, which took place at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday ,marked the beginning of a new era in leadership.
Air Vice Marshal Gabkwet, in his farewell address, expressed gratitude to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, for the opportunity to serve. He acknowledged the challenges of the role and praised the media for their support, emphasizing the importance of synergy between the Air Force and the media in securing the country.
Air Vice Marshal Gabkwet also congratulated his successor and expressed confidence in his ability to build on the gains he recorded. He equally thanked the cooperation and support enjoyed from the officers and soldiers of the Directorate during his tour of duty and called on them to accord same to his successor.
In his inaugural address, Air Commodore Akinboyewa, pledged to maintain open lines of communication, soliciting feedback and input from the media and the public. He stressed the need for robust synergy between the Air Force and the media to achieve their shared goals of making Nigeria a peaceful, prosperous, and safe nation.
The new Director thanked the CAS for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to discharge his duties creditably. He congratulated his predecessor and wished him well on his new appointment.
Mr. Stanley Ogadigo, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Abuja Chapter, pledged total support to Air Commodore Akinboyewa, acknowledging his leadership potential and commitment to professionalism. He noted that as member of the NIPR, the new DOPRI is expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in his new role.
As Air Commodore Akinboyewa begins his tenure, he urges the media and the public to extend their support, collaboration, and guidance to ensure the success of the Nigerian Air Force in its critical role of securing the nation.
