As part of the activities commemorating the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) @ 60 Anniversary Celebration and barely 11 months since assumption of office as the 22nd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, on 20 May 2024, unveiled 15 significant infrastructural projects in Abuja. Some of the key projects commissioned and located at NAF Base, Asokoro, include a 40-bed NAF Hospital Asokoro, a sports complex, the NAF Microfinance Bank, a fire bay, and a 56-shop market plaza. Also inaugurated were the NAF Airmen Mini Base in Karu, the NAF Officers Quarters in Garki and Karimu, a 6-floor new HQ NAF Annex Building at Gudu and a brand-new state-of-the-art Airport Commandant’s office at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The CAS also conducted the groundbreaking ceremony for the proposed NAF Centre of Excellence Complex situated at Bill Clinton Drive, along the Airport Road. This Centre is set to house 4 critical institutes: the Institute of Airpower Studies, the Air Force War College, the Air Warfare Centre, and the Air to Ground Integration School. It is envisaged that when completed, the Centre would offer first-rate air power education and learning as well as foster innovation in air power doctrinal development.
In his remarks after the unveiling ceremony, Air Marshal Abubakar acknowledged the NAF’s struggles with housing shortages due to its expanded force structure, a challenge now being tackled head-on by his leadership. He also emphasized that these initiatives fulfill a key element of his command philosophy: maintaining a highly motivated force by enhancing welfare and infrastructural renewal. The CAS then stressed the importance of properly claiming and securing all NAF-owned properties, while noting that NAF’s dedication to safeguarding its assets and reclaiming encroached lands will assist in creating space for future operational facilities and accommodations for its growing workforce.
The CAS further revealed that as the NAF celebrates its 60th anniversary, the commissioning of these projects aligns with his transformative agenda to reposition the force for continued growth and development, while also serving as a fitting tribute to NAF’s six decades of service and sacrifice. According to him, “These advancements not only bolster the NAF’s operational capabilities but also significantly elevate the welfare of its personnel, ensuring the force is well-prepared to confront future challenges.” He then urged NAF personnel to make the most of these facilities and expressed gratitude to the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Bola Ahmad Tinubu, for his unwavering support.
Edward Gabkwet
Air Vice Marshal
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigerian Air Force