The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar on Thursday declared that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has witnessed a remarkable transformation under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Abubakar stated this while receiving the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda who was on the familiarisation of the NAF Headquarters in Abuja, stating that it is evident in the revitalisation of its fleet and enhanced operational readiness to continue to fulfil its constitutional mandate to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
According to him, “Over the past year, we have taken delivery of 14 brand-new advanced aircraft as part of 64 aircraft which will be delivered in a space of 3 years.
“It is therefore no exaggeration to state that the Nigerian Air Force is experiencing a golden era under the current administration. I assure you, sir, that the NAF will not relent on the trust reposed on us by Mr President but continue to consolidate on the operational gains made so far.
“While undergoing a focused transformation in line with my command philosophy, the Nigerian Air Force has remained steadfast in its mission to secure Nigeria’s airspace and contribute effectively to enhancing our national security.”
He explained that between June 2023 and December last year, the NAF conducted over 8,665 missions and 9,928 sorties, within 15,915 flying hours across all aircraft types.
According to him, “This underscores the magnitude of the relentless air efforts in all theatres of operations including OP HADIN KAI, FANSAN YAMMA, DELTA SAFE, SAFE HAVEN, AWA TSE, UDO KA and WHIRL STROKE respectfully
“So far, our personnel have demonstrated professionalism, resilience, and unwavering dedication in the face of evolving security challenges.
“However, these efforts greatly depend on the continuous and solid support from the Ministry of Defence.”
He pointed out the President indeed made an excellent choice of the new Permanent Secretary, given his outstanding pedigree as a five-time Permanent Secretary in various ministries, including Foreign Affairs, Women’s Affairs, and Petroleum Resources amongst others
CAS expressed confidence that his leadership and expertise would go a long way to make a significant impact in addressing the critical challenge of insecurity in the country.
According to him, “Over the years, the MOD’s steadfast support has enabled the NAF to fulfil its mandate as a critical component of Nigeria’s defence architecture.
“Through timely policy guidance, resource allocation, and strategic oversight, the MOD has empowered us to enhance our operational readiness, modernize our platforms, and strengthen our personnel capabilities.
“These efforts have not only elevated the NAF’s operational effectiveness but have also reinforced our ability to respond swiftly and decisively to emerging security challenges.
“We are confident that under your tenure as Permanent Secretary, the Ministry of Defence will continue to provide us the necessary support to enable the NAF to achieve even greater successes.
“Your wealth of experience and dedication to service will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light as we relentlessly work towards ending the menace of insecurity plaguing various parts of our dear country.
“I assure you of the NAF’s unwavering commitment, and readiness to work closely with the Ministry of Defence towards building a capable, agile and more resilient Nigerian Air Force.”
He commended the immense support extended to the service by President Tinubu and the two ministers in charge of the Ministry with a promise never to let them and the nation down.
In his remarks, the new Permanent Secretary solicited for a harmonious working relationship in the national interest, saying he came around for a spot assessment with a promise to operate open doors policy during his tenure.
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