Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), embarked on an operational visit to the logistics command and other operational units and formations of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) situated in Lagos. His visit also included the headquarters of the air components and Joint Task Force Operation AWATSE.
The Logistics Command, established in 1982, plays a crucial role in providing logistical support for the NAF, including procurement, maintenance, sustenance, and eventual disposal of facilities and equipment. Air Marshal Abubakar’s inspection aimed to ensure that the operational requirements and welfare needs of the officers and men of NAF Lagos are adequately met.
In his address, Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the significant progress made by the Nigerian Air Force since its establishment in 1962, leading up to its upcoming 60th anniversary. From humble beginnings with limited platforms and training facilities, the NAF now boasts 30 different aircraft types and a personnel strength of over 35,000 officers and men spread across all geopolitical zones of the country.
While reflecting on the NAF’s evolution, Air Marshal Abubakar acknowledged the transition from conventional warfare to irregular warfare and counter-insurgency operations. He emphasized the challenges posed by adversaries embedded within civilian populations, which sometimes result in unintended civilian casualties. However, he reassured that the NAF is committed to minimizing such incidents through intelligence-driven operations and continuous learning from past mistakes.
Air Marshal Abubakar underscored the importance of research and development (R&D) in driving innovation within the NAF. He highlighted ongoing R&D efforts, including the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) such as the Gulma and Tsaigumi, which are nearing mass production stages. Additionally, he noted that several NAF research products have been patented, demonstrating the NAF’s commitment to technological advancement.
Regarding collaboration with other security agencies, Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the NAF’s excellent relationship with agencies such as the Department of State Services, Nigerian Police, Army, and Navy. He highlighted the exchange of intelligence and joint operations as key components of the NAF’s collaborative efforts to enhance national security.
Air Marshal Abubakar’s operational visit reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to maintaining operational readiness, fostering innovation through R&D, and strengthening collaboration with other security agencies to address emerging security challenges effectively.
