NAF chief to commanders: Nigerians expect so much — we must not disappoint

Hasan Abubakar, the chief of air staff, has asked commanders to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens. 

Abubakar spoke on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting of commanders, branch heads, directors, commandants and air component operation heads.

In a statement by Edward Gabkwet, NAF spokesperson, Abubakar said Nigerians are expecting so much from the air force.

The chief of air staff urged the commanders to put all hands on deck in order to meet up with the hopes of the masses.  

“So much is expected of us by the Nigerian people in ensuring we clear all areas of criminals and their tendencies,” Abubakar was quoted as saying. 

“Therefore, we cannot afford to let Nigerians down.”  

Abubakar told the NAF commanders to use the two-day meeting to improve and enhance their logistics support and maintenance practices.

He also urged them to ensure that NAF’s air assets are serviced for optimal use. 

“You evolve strategies to improve NAF operations as well as enhance its logistics support systems and maintenance practices while ensuring the serviceability of air assets for optimal employment of airpower capabilities in joint operations,” he said. 

The chief of air staff said NAF has started taking delivery of additional air assets purchased by the federal government.

He said two Diamond-62 Multi-Purpose Platforms have been received and stationed in Ilorin, Kwara state. 

Abubakar said other newly acquired air assets will be inducted into the service. 

“The additional aircraft would add considerable impetus to NAF operations in dealing with insurgents, terrorists and other criminal elements plaguing our nation,” he said. 

He also assured Nigerians of “NAF’s unwavering commitment to continually work wholeheartedly, in concert with other security agencies, towards achieving the mandate of ensuring a safe, secured, united and prosperous nation.”