By Kingsley Omonobi, ABUJA

In his address at a Durbar, which dovetailed into the Christmas luncheon, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has discribed the Nigerian Air Force, NAF, personnel as “the shield that protects the vulnerable and the force that stands between chaos and stability.”

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Speaking at the luncheon with NAF pilots and personnel in Maiduguri at Christmas, Air Marshal Abubakar praised their resilience, particularly in spending the festive season away from their families, and paid tribute to fallen heroes.

He assured the gathering that their sacrifices would never be forgotten even as he expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering commitment to the empowerment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

He said this has bolstered NAF operations through welfare enhancement, advanced platforms procurement, and capacity-building programmes.

“These initiatives align with the NAF’s non-kinetic strategies and have greatly supported the Service’s operational effectiveness,” he added.

The CAS also acknowledged the Minister of Defence and Minister of State for Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, and the Shehu of Borno for their support and collaboration.

The CAS further urged personnel to remain steadfast and united, assuring them that their sacrifices are deeply valued by the nation.

“Your courage and resilience remain an inspiration,” he stated.

On 25 December 2024, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, marked Christmas Day with personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, NAF, Base Maiduguri.

A statement by Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information said the visit, “which combined an operational tour with a luncheon, served to celebrate the season, acknowledge the personnel’s sacrifices, and reinforce the NAF’s commitment to national security.

“The day began with an inspection of the Quarter Guard by the CAS, followed by briefings at Headquarters Air Component (HQ AC) Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) and 105 Composite Group (CG).

“During the briefings, Air Marshal Abubakar lauded the personnel’s unwavering dedication to counterinsurgency operations, noting their significant contributions to degrading insurgent capabilities.

“A tour of facilities highlighted strides in readiness and welfare initiatives, reflecting the NAF’s continuous commitment to operational excellence.

Zulum

In his goodwill message to the troops, delivered by his representative Professor Usman Tar, the State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Zulum expressed the appreciation of the government and people of Borno State for the NAF’s vital role in maintaining security in the Northeast.

He highlighted their efforts in humanitarian interventions during the recent flood disaster, including airlifting relief materials and conducting medical outreaches.

“Your sacrifices have guaranteed the safety and security of our communities,” he remarked, calling the personnel an inspiration to future generations.

The Governor reiterated the State’s commitment to supporting the armed forces and prayed for their safety and continued success.

The Air Officer Commanding, AOC, also extended a warm welcome to the CAS and other dignitaries, emphasizing the Air Component’s achievements in counterterrorism under the leadership of Air Marshal Abubakar.

He acknowledged the personnel’s valour and commitment, which have significantly impacted the fight against terrorism.

The AOC commended the CAS for his provision of modern air power capabilities and welfare improvements, promising unflinching dedication to restoring peace in Borno State and across the country.

The visit not only strengthened the camaraderie among NAF personnel but also underscored a renewed commitment to ensuring lasting peace and security.

Vanguard News