The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to enhancing the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to address emerging security threats.
This was disclosed by the Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD), Dr. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, during the opening of the 2024 NAF Training, Operations, and Safety Seminar held at the NAF Officers Mess and Suites, Kado, Abuja, on December 4, 2024.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, the HMOD praised the proactive leadership of the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, for leveraging newly acquired assets to counter threats such as insurgency, terrorism, and banditry.
He attributed the progress in restoring stability to the Northeast and other regions to the synergy between focused training and effective operational execution.
“The Northeastern part of the country now enjoys relative peace and calmness owing to the selfless contributions and dedication of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. 
This progress would not have been possible without platforms like this Seminar, where performance is assessed, and areas for improvement are identified,” the HMOD stated.
The CAS, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, highlighted the significant support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, describing it as a “Golden Era” for the NAF.
He announced the acquisition of 12 advanced aircraft within the past year, including KA-360i and DA-62 planes, T-129 ATAK helicopters, and AW-109 Trekker helicopters. He also revealed the expected delivery of high-performance platforms such as M-346FA jets, CASA-295 aircraft, and AH-1Z attack helicopters.
The CAS underscored the importance of the Seminar, urging participants to adopt the insights shared to enhance training, operations, and safety.
Air Vice Marshal FO Edosa, Chief of Training and Operations, disclosed significant strides in fleet expansion and pilot training under the current leadership. He announced that 14 new platforms have been delivered, with 50 more expected soon, emphasizing the need for a skilled workforce.
Notably, 28 newly trained pilots and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operators were winged during the event after completing advanced courses in Nigeria, Egypt, and the United States.
Themed “Agile and Resilient Air Power for National Security: Enhancing Safety and Optimizing NAF Air Operations to Combat Emerging Threats,” the two-day Seminar aims to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges through advanced training, operational excellence, and safety innovation.
Day One of the event featured key milestones, including the signing of updated agreements between the NAF and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and Hybrid HSE, as well as the presentation of an accreditation certificate to the Air Traffic Services Training Centre (ATSTC) by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
This certification designates ATSTC as an Approved Training Organisation (ATO), enhancing its capacity to deliver world-class training for both military and civil aviation personnel.
The Seminar underscores the NAF’s dedication to operational efficiency, safety, and its resolve to tackle emerging threats to national security.
LV