By Victor Akaa
The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has reiterated its dedication to strengthening the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) operational capabilities to combat emerging security threats.
This assurance was given by the Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, during the 2024 NAF Training, Operations and Safety Seminar, which commenced on December 4, 2024, at the NAF Officers Mess and Suites in Kado, Abuja.
A statement relayed to Enugu Reporters on Wednesday by the Director Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, highlighted some key achievements recorded by NAF in recent times, including safety and innovation, capacity development, international cooperation, advanced training programmes and operational readiness.
Dr. Abubakar, represented by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, commended the NAF’s leadership under Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar for its proactive posture and decisive action in countering threats such as insurgency, terrorism, and banditry.
He said the NAF has made significant progress in restoring stability to the Northeast and other parts of the country, attributed to the synergy between deliberate mission-oriented training and effective operational execution.
Speaking on the theme, “ Agile and Resilient Air Power for National Security; Enhancing Safety and Optimizing NAF Air Operations to Combat Emerging Threats,” the Minister urged the NAF to sustain its operational efficiency and capabilities to curb the emerging threats.
The minister highlighted the importance of the seminar, noting that it would allow them to assess the previous operational feats for reinvigoration to sustain operational effectiveness and improvement.
“The Northeastern part of the country now enjoys relative peace and calmness owing to the selfless contributions and dedication of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. All these would not have been possible if not for the constant need to assess performance and identify shortcomings in our operational activities and I believe this is what gave birth to a forum like this, where we would rub minds and examine areas that require improvement,” he stated.
In his remarks, the Chief of Ari Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering support, describing the current period as a “Golden Era” for the Service.
He highlighted significant advancements, including the acquisition of 12 advanced aircraft over the past year, such as KA-360i and DA-62 planes, as well as T-129 ATAK and AW-109 Trekker helicopters.
The CAS also announced the procurement of three high-performance platforms, including M-346FA jets, CASA-295 aircraft and AH-1Z attack helicopters, as well as 12 pre-owned Alpha jets from the French Air Force, with 6 to be operationally restored and 6 allocated for spare parts.
According to him, these efforts by the NAF are to bolster operational readiness, effectiveness, and efficiency with modern platforms.
He noted that the Seminar aims to optimize NAF operations and enhance safety measures, with experts gathered to deliberate on key strategies.
Day One featured the winging of 28 newly trained NAF pilots, the presentation of awards for gallantry and exceptional performance, and significant milestones, including the signing of reviewed memoranda of understanding between the NAF and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), and the historic presentation of an accreditation certificate to the Air Traffic Services Training Centre (ATSTC) by the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
He said the NAF has also demonstrated its commitment to accountability and financial prudence, with Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar reaffirming the importance of efficient resource management to support modern air power demands.
Additionally, the NAF has strengthened collaboration with key stakeholders, such as Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MESL), to ensure the security of critical national assets
