Abuja: The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) announced that as it marks its 61st anniversary, it celebrates a legacy of dedication to duty and an unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Air Commodore Sylvester Eyoma, the Chairman of the Organising Committee for the NAF@61 Celebration and the 4th International Air Force Forum, shared this during a briefing in Abuja. Eyoma highlighted that over the past 61 years, the NAF has undergone a significant transformation in its structure, personnel, and equipment, enhancing its ability to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities effectively.
Eyoma emphasized NAF’s critical role in combating insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities across Nigeria. “Through precision air strikes, coordinated operations, and advanced surveillance, we have recorded significant operational successes,” he stated. These efforts have disrupted terrorist networks, undermined their logistics, and supported ongoing military and security agency efforts to address the nation’s security challenges.
The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Optimising Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations,’ underscores the importance of civilian cooperation in securing the country. A range of activities has been organized for the celebration, including the Chief of the Air Staff’s Literary Competition and Open Day Visits with Career talks at NAF bases, which provided the public an opportunity to engage with NAF personnel.
Eyoma also noted the inauguration of Quick Impact Projects across NAF operations theaters, such as a new clinic in Rukubi Community, Nasarawa State, which addresses the needs of civilians affected by an airstrike in January 2023. Additionally, President Bola Tinubu is expected to induct the Augusta 109S Trekker Helicopter into service as part of the NAF@61 celebration.
The anniversary will transition into the 4th African Air Forces Forum, aiming to enhance regional security cooperation through advanced aerospace technologies. The forum will gather air force chiefs, defense experts, and industry leaders from Africa and beyond to discuss air power advancements and security collaboration. Over 2,000 participants, including representatives from 30 air forces, 12 air staff chiefs, and 45 exhibitors, are expected to attend the conference and exhibitions scheduled for May 22 and 23.