Defence Minister Applauds NAF for Significant Strides in Air Operations

The Nigerian Minister of Defence, Dr. Mohammed Badaru, has commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for making significant strides in air operations as a result of effective training and manpower development.

The Defence Minister gave the commendation at the NAF Training Operations and Safety Seminar 2024 in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Kana, he said the leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff has been instrumental in the NAF’s success, and it is imperative to acknowledge his brilliant role in these achievements.

According to him, “The NAF’s ability to effectively utilize its recently acquired assets and platforms to combat terrorism and restore stability to the nation is a notable accomplishment.

“As you all know, the NAF’s successes can be attributed to its well-trained personnel, who operate with a strong emphasis on safety. This focus on safety is crucial, as it enables the NAF to maintain a high level of operational tempo while minimizing the risk of accidents and mishaps,” he added.

“It is noteworthy to mention that the North Eastern part of the country now enjoys relative peace and calmness owing to the selfless contributions and dedication of the men of the armed forces.

“All these would not have been possible if not for the constant need to assess performances 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.

“I am particularly impressed with the theme selected for this seminar, which is “Agile and Resilient Air Power for National Security: Enhancing Safety and Optimizing NAF Air Operations to Combat Emerging Threats.”

He noted that it underscores the need to project air power in the face of national security imperatives while striving to operate within a safe environment.

He stressed that the current security dynamics of the country mandate the conduct of concurrent operational activities at all levels.

“So many operational theatres supported by air components have been launched in different parts of the country over the past 10 years.”

“This means that all hands will be on deck to ensure the success of these operations, Quality training may not be enough to execute all missions successfully.

“You still need the knowledge of tactics and technical understanding of the imperative of war to succeed in the field, which is why this forum is necessary and very crucial to the NAF.”

He mentioned the need for safety when carrying out these activities as safety is what binds operations and training together.

In his remarks, the Nigerian Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar said the Nigerian Air Force made significant strides in enhancing its operational readiness and safety protocols.

The Air Chief said that the emerging threats they face demand even greater collaboration, improved training frameworks, and the institutionalization of safety as a cornerstone of all operations.

He noted that Training, Operations, and Safety are integral and inseparable pillars that collectively underpin the constitutional mandate and raison d’être of an Air Force.

“It is, therefore, highly commendable that, for the first time, we are hosting a seminar that holistically integrates these three distinct yet interdependent domains, for meaningful dialogue and critical introspection,” he said.

He noted that the timing of the seminar is perfect as the Airforce reviews its operational activities for 2024 and refines strategies for deploying airpower to address all threats to national security in the coming year.

“Our goal is to provide the enabling environment for all Nigerians to fully benefit from Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the year 2025,” he added.

He stressed under the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Air Force has witnessed a remarkable renaissance, evident in the renewal of the aircraft fleet and enhanced operational readiness.

He said over the past year, NAF has taken delivery of 12 advanced aircraft which include 2 x KA-360i aircraft, 4 x DA-62 aircraft, 4 x T-129 helicopters, and 2 x AW-109 Trekker helicopters. Before the end of this year, the Service is expecting additional deliveries of 2 x T-129 helicopters and 1 x KA 360i aircraft. Next year, the NAF is also set to receive 10 x AW-109 Trekker helicopters, 24 x M-346FA aircraft, and 3 CASA-295 aircraft as well as 12 x AH-1Z attack helicopters.

This makes a total of 64 brand-new aircraft in about 3 years.

In addition to these new acquisitions, they have also procured 12 pre-owned A-Jet aircraft from the French Air Force through SOFEMA.

While all 12 aircraft are ready for shipping, it is anticipated that 6 will be restored to operable status, with the remaining 6 used as spares to support the Alpha Jet fleet.

According to him, they will not relent on the trust reposed on them by the President but continue to consolidate the operational gains made so far.

He commended all Air Component Commanders for their exceptional leadership and outstanding performance.

“As we look to the future, I charge you to build on this success and strive for even greater excellence, particularly with the anticipated induction of new platforms in the coming weeks and months,” he said.

He therefore, encouraged all participants in this seminar, to engage actively in the discussions and contribute innovative ideas that will refine strategies and give impetus to “transform the NAF into an agile and resilient force that effectively meets the airpower demands of national security in all operational environments.”