The Nigerian Air Force says at 60, it has continued to fulfill its mandates of securing the territorial integrity of the nation through the effective application of Air Power.
The Chairman, Organizing Committee of the Nigerian Air Force @60 Anniversary Celebration, Air Vice Marshal Michael Ekwueme made this known when briefing Journalists on the activities lined up for the forthcoming celebrations in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
The Theme of the celebration is “Nigerian Air Force @ 60: Leveraging Strategic Partnerships in Aerospace Innovations for Regional Security”.
“This year’s theme is aimed at building on the Partnerships to address contemporary security challenges not only in the country, but across the African region”, he said.
Air Vice Marshal Ekwueme said that “it is pertinent to note that the Nigerian Air Force has made appreciable progress and significant contributions in the areas of International Security, humanitarian assistance, peace keeping as well as restoration and sustenance of democracy in the African continent.”
According to him, Nigerian Air Force 60th anniversary celebration will be held from 23rd to 25th, May 2024 in Abuja and Kaduna State, with some preceding activities holding across all Nigerian Air Force units in the country.
He commended the cordial relationship between the Nigerian Air Force and the media over the years.
“That the recent successes recorded by the Nigerian Air Force under the leadership of Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar in the 10 months will not have been made possible without the cooperation and constant support of the media. I therefore wish to commend your sense of patriotism and cooperation in building a strong and vital Nation as well as promoting peace and unity in our dear country”, he said.
He added that as the Nigerian Air Force will be celebrating its 60 years of existence, the Diamond Jubilee Anniversary is not only a time for celebration, but also a moment for deep reflection on its accomplishments, challenges and charting the way forward.
According to him, throughout their rich history, the Nigerian Air Force has overcome numerous obstacles, adapted to evolving threats and subsequently emerged stronger and more resilient.
He said “there is no doubt that the service has grown over the years into a formidable and respected Force within the African continent and beyond”.
He noted that the theme of the celebration is in line with one of the key enablers of the Chief of Air Staff command philosophy, which is prioritizing research and development, leveraging Cutting Edge technology and strategic Partnerships.
To mark this year’s celebration a series of activities have been lined up to enlighten the citizens on the contributions of the Nigerian Air Force in enhancing the security of the Nation.
“These include Medical outreaches to various host communities tomorrow Wednesday 15th May followed by J’umat prayers on Friday 17th May, on Saturday 18th May, there will be an outreach by the Nigerian Air Force officers wives Association in Abuja.”
He added that due to the emphasis on research and development in the Nigerian Air Force, there will be an inter-command research and development competition on the Saturday, 18th May in Abuja.
There will also be a golf kit on Saturday 18th May at Nigeria Force Base, and an interdenominational church service on 19th May, in all NAF Bases.
According to him, they are expecting over 2,000 participants with over 30 Chiefs of Air Forces and 10 Chiefs are already confirming their participation.
Also, over 40 exhibitors are expected, including Major Defense and Aerospace players such as Airbus Emperor Diamond aircraft, Han jet Aion, and Baiken.
There will also be an inter command Nigeria first Combat Sports competition on 24th, May at the newly completed and seemingly commissioned Nigerian Air Force Sports Complex.
The Chairman added that the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to be the special guest of honor at the location.
“It is interesting to note that the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force having adequately considered the prevailing economic situation in the country, decided to adopt a cost-saving and novel approach in organizing this Year’s celebration.
“So for the first time, the Nigerian Air Force is adopting a public private partnership model to organize and fund this event”, he said.
He informed the general public, especially the people of Abuja and Kaduna state not to panic as a result of the influx of Nigerian Air Force assets, especially the Aircraft and Personnel that will be taking part in these events.
