The immediate past Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), retired Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, says the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) inducted 15 brand new aircraft and reactivated several older platforms under his watch.
Abubakar said the NAF executed no fewer than 589 infrastructure projects across bases and formations during his tenure.
He disclosed this on Saturday while reviewing his Flying-Out Parade at NAF Base, Abuja, marking his final official function after nearly two and a half years at the helm of the Service.
Abubakar said his leadership focused on transforming the Air Force into “an agile and resilient force that effectively meets the airpower demands of national security in all operational environments.”
According to him, the Service strengthened its institutional framework, expanded its establishments and modernised its Order of Battle, while prioritising training, maintenance culture, aviation safety and indigenous research and development to enhance self-reliance.
“In furtherance of these efforts, we executed not less than 589 infrastructure projects across the Service, including the monumental Headquarters NAF Annex at Gudu, and delivered critical safety enablers such as the Instrument Landing System at NAF Base Kaduna,” he said.
Abubakar added that the establishment of the NAF Microfinance Bank also improved access to financial services and enhanced personnel welfare.
He stressed that the achievements recorded were products of teamwork and sacrifice, noting that beyond platforms and projects, the ultimate objective remained the peace and stability of a united Nigeria.
The former CAS paid glowing tributes to fallen officers, airmen and airwomen who laid down their lives in defence of the nation, urging personnel to uphold the core values of integrity, service before self and excellence.
He commended the parade Commander and participating personnel for their discipline and professionalism, describing the ceremony as a reflection of a mission-focused and combat-ready force.
Abubakar also appreciated the support of sister services, other security agencies and strategic partners, both local and foreign, in advancing NAF’s modernisation drive and strengthening Nigeria’s airpower projection capabilities.
He expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him to serve as CAS, as well as members of the National Assembly, the Minister of Defence and National Security Adviser.
He also appreciated the the Chief of Defence Staff and other Service Chiefs for their cooperation.
Abubakar urged personnel to accord the incumbent CAS, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, full loyalty and steadfast support in sustaining the Service’s operational momentum.
“I take my leave with unshakable confidence in the future of the Nigerian Air Force and remain firmly committed to the peace, unity and security of our great nation,” he said.
The Flying Out Parade, steeped in military tradition and aerial spectacle, marked Abubakar’s final official engagement in uniform after over three decades of service and nearly two and a half years at the helm of the Air Force.
