NAF conducts over 8,665 missions in 18 months – CAS

The Chief of Air Staff(CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Thursday said that the Nigerian Air Force conducted over 8,665 missions and dropped 9,928 sorties, between June 2023 and December 2024, while executing security operations   in the country.

Abubakar, has also said that the NAF,  have taken delivery of 14 brand-new advanced aircraft as part of 64 aircraft which will be delivered in a space of 3 years.

The NAF chief said this when he received the newly appointed  Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, in his office at the NAF headquarters in Abuja.

Abubakar, while assuring that the NAF, will not relent on the trust reposed on the service  by  President Bola Tinubu, said it would  continue to consolidate on the operational gains made so far and ensure the insecurity bedeviling the country ends in the shortest possible time.

“This underscores the magnitude of the relentless air efforts in all theatres of operations including Operation Hadin Kai, Fansan Yamma, Delta Safe, Safe Haven, Awarse, Udoka and Whirl Stroke
The CAS, who used the occasion to showcase some of the achievements of the NAF, said: “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 of President Bola Tinubu

“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.
Continuing, Abubakar, said “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.

“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.

“While  commending President Tinubu for his visionary leadership, Abubakar, said “the Nigerian Air Force has witnessed a remarkable transformation, evident in the revitalization of our fleet and enhanced operational readiness.

“While congratulating him on his appointment, Abubakar, sajs “We are truly honoured to have you with us today, as this is your first official visit to the HQ NAF since your appointment.

“Indeed, your presence underscores your commitment to gaining first hand understanding of the operational environment, challenges, and strategic goals of the Nigerian Air Force as we continue to fulfill our constitutional mandate to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

“On behalf of the officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian staff of the Nigerian Air Force, I extend our warmest greetings and hearty congratulations on your well-deserved appointment.

“Indeed, Mr. President made an excellent choice, given your outstanding pedigree as a five-time Permanent Secretary in various ministries, including Foreign Affairs, Women Affairs, and Petroleum Resources to mention a few.

Expressing the belief that the leadership and expertise of Ambassador Aduda will make “a significant impact in addressing the critical challenge of insecurity in our beloved country,” Air Marshal Abubakar wished him, “a successful and impactful tenure in office as I look forward to working closely with you to take the Nigerian Air Force to greater heights.”

He said: “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.”

He said “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.”

In his reponse,  Ambassador while thanking the CAS for the reception accorded him and his delegation, promised to improve on the existing cordial working relations between the ministry and the NAF to enable the service carry out it’s mandate of securing the nation from air against all adversaries.