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  • NAF takes medical outreach to Lagos community

    NAF takes medical outreach to Lagos community

    As part of activities to celebrate its 61st anniversary, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) at the weekend carried out a free medical outreach for residents in Shasha, a Lagos suburb.

    Conducted by NAF’s 041 Communications Depot in Shasha on the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, the outreach saw the service tending to hundreds of people on the entire Saturday.

    The Nation reports that over 500 residents of Oguntade and environs submitted themselves for screening and consultation by NAF’s medical personnel, and those requiring outpatient services were given medications.

    Six individuals were identified for complimentary surgical procedures, just as free treated mosquito nets were distributed to nursing mothers.

    Addressing the community at the commencement of the exercise, the Commanding Officer (CO) of the Medical Centre, 041 CIS Depot, Wing Commander Joseph Solomon, said the initiative was one of the service’s ways of getting closer to the people.

    “We are conducting a free medical outreach that has been sponsored by the Chief of the Air Staff. The services available are free consultation, free medical treatment, and selected surgeries for individuals who have Lipoma, Hernia,s and fibroids.

    Read Also: NAF seeks locally driven solutions to security challenges

    “We have gynaecologists that we have talked to, and they are ready to offer the free services. We intend to carry out between five and 10 surgical procedures. 

    “That’s what we are going to offer today. Additionally, we are also going to offer health education on common illnesses because several individuals don’t actually have the knowledge of common diseases, and that is one of the things that makes the outcome very poor in our environment. “So today we are going to give that health education for people to be aware of the common diseases so that when they have symptoms, they can present immediately to the hospital,” he said.

    Solomon said the message the NAF was passing through the medical outreach was that both the military and civilian populations should continue living in harmony, adding that the service wanted the Nigerian masses to see and feel the human side of their Air Force.

    “Therefore, our people should feel free to access the care, and also they should make sure that the spirit of cordial relationship between the military and the civil population continues,” he said.

    Appreciating the CAS for the gesture, members of the community noted that it was relieving for them to have access to doctors and other care providers at no cost to them, urging the service to continue the gesture more frequently.

    They also thanked the Commander, 041 CIS Depot, Air Commodore SM Chindo, for fostering an environment of peaceful coexistence between the military and the civilian population.

    Speaking on behalf of the Baale of Oguntade, the CDA Chairman, Alefa Olatoye Nurudeen, said they were appreciative of the NAF, especially because the last time they had such a programme in their community was in 2011.

    “We have been expecting something like this, but for a very long time, they have not been coming. Though the Base usually treats some of our people who can access their facility inside the compound but we are glad that this time around, they came to the market square and everyone is being attended to.

    “We’re very happy to see them and we welcome them. That’s why we’re all sitting.  I want to appeal to them that they should not just leave us after this one. They should try and connect more of us to their base for our people to have regular free health care.

    “This is because a lot of our people are peasant farmers, and they do not have the resources to go to the hospital.

    “The majority of us are not educated. We don’t even have enough money to go for medical treatment. So if they can assist us after this outreach that our people will come to them and they will attend to us as the Oguntade community, we will really appreciate that,” he said.

    An 84-year-old woman, Mrs.  Rhoda Omodele, said she came for the outreach because she was experiencing body pains.

    “I have body pains. This is very good, I’m grateful, I have prayed for all of you to be successful and victorious over your enemies, God will keep you and your children.

    “I have hypertension and body pains, I cannot see clearly, my eyes are always blurry. My ears hurt because of my eyes. They used to give me drugs that I put in the ear and eyes, it worked, and I am happy because I know this one they have given me will work well.”

    Another beneficiary, Mrs Idowu Ogunsade, 56, said she came for the outreach because of the pains in her knees.

    “I have been having the pains and usually go to the pharmacy for drugs. My husband is late, and I do not have the money to go to the hospital. So, I am grateful to the Air Force for checking me and giving me drugs that will help me,” she said.

  • NAF ready, alert, determined to protect Nigeria – CAS

    NAF ready, alert, determined to protect Nigeria – CAS

    The Nigerian Air Force remains ready, alert, and determined to protect Nigeria, every day.

    The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, made this known at commemoration of the Nigerian Air Force 61st anniversary.

    The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement on Wednesday, said the CAS gave the charge while on an operational visit to frontline troops in Katsina.

    He urged the officers and men of the airforce to maintain high levels of vigilance and not lose sight of the ultimate goal of defending Nigeria and protecting its citizens.

    Abubakar urged the personnel to maintain the tempo of operations and intensify their efforts until enduring peace and security were restored nationwide.

    The CAS also noted that the ongoing 61st anniversary celebrations, while showcasing NAF airpower to the public, further enhance the Force’s state of readiness and proficiency.

    “Nigerians can be rest assured that we remain fully committed to our constitutional mandate. We will continue to give our very best in defence of our nation.

    “While significant gains have been made across all theatres of operation, the fight is far from over.

    “Yes, we have achieved commendable milestones, but this is not the time to slow down. We must not rest on our oars.

    Read Also: NAF thrills Lagos pupils, residents, donates hospital in Nasarawa

    ”Now is the time to consolidate and intensify our air strikes against terrorists, insurgents and bandits.

    “Even as we mark 61 years of dedicated service, we must give our fellow countrymen more reasons to hope, more victories that reassure them that their Air Force remains alert, ready, and determined to defeat all enemies of peace,” he stated.

    The CAS also used the opportunity to interact with troops at the operational base, inspect facilities, and assess the state of deployed platforms.

    He said the visit underscored his commitment to troop welfare, operational effectiveness, and frontline engagement as part of a broader strategy to restore peace and stability across troubled regions.

    (NAN) 

  • NAF thrills Lagos pupils, residents, donates hospital in Nasarawa

    NAF thrills Lagos pupils, residents, donates hospital in Nasarawa

    • To induct new aircraft Friday

    As part of activities to mark its 61st anniversary, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) yesterday opened up its air assets for hundreds of Lagosians, including pupils.

    Air assets like the C-130 Logistics plane, fighter jets, Diamond aircraft and assault helicopters, among others, lined up at the hangar of the 631 Aircraft Maintenance Depot, Ikeja, with pilots and crew assisting the visitors who came from across the state.

    Read Also: NAF: 1,150 terrorists neutralised in Northwest operation in 17 months

    Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Kolade Ademuwagun, said it was in line with the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, to strengthen civil-military relations.

    He noted that most Nigerians were not aware of what the NAF does, adding that it was important for the masses to see what the annual budgets approved for the service was being used for and how it conducted its affairs.

  • NAF to induct new aircraft May 16, donates hospital to Nasarawa community 

    NAF to induct new aircraft May 16, donates hospital to Nasarawa community 

    The Nigerian Air Force has announced plans to induct the newly acquired Augusta 109S Trekker helicopter at the 011 Presidential Air Fleet. 

    The induction ceremony, scheduled for Friday, May 16, is part of activities marking its 61st anniversary.

    Chairman of the Anniversary organising committee, Air Commodore Sylvester Eyoma, announced this at a press briefing in Abuja, on Tuesday. 

    Eyoma said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to attend the event as the Special Guest of Honour.

    He said: “On Friday, 16 May 2025, there will be an induction ceremony for the Augusta 109S Trekker Helicopter at the 011 Presidential Air Fleet.

    “The President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Niger, His Excellency Bola Tinubu is expected to grace the occasion as the Special Guest of Honour. 

    “On the same Friday, Jumaat Prayers will be held in mosques across all NAF units.”

    Read Also: NAF: 1,150 terrorists neutralised in Northwest operation in 17 months

    Eyoma also announced that a newly constructed hospital in Rukubi community, Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, the site of a tragic airstrike that claimed civilian lives in January 2023 would also be inuagrated as part of activities events for the anniversary. 

    Eyoma noted that the project underscores the Air Force’s commitment to reconciliation and rebuilding trust with civilians.

    He said, “On Thursday, there will be commissioning of Quick Impact Projects across NAF operations theatre. One of the projects is a clinic that has been constructed in Rukubi Community in Doma LGA of Nasarawa State, where some civilians lost their lives in January 2023, due to an unfortunate airstrike.”

    Eyoma also said over 30 air forces and at least 12 Chiefs of Air Staff from across Africa will participate in the forum, aimed at bolstering regional cooperation and promoting the adoption of advanced aerospace technologies.

    He said, “For this high-profile event, there will be a gathering of air force chiefs, defense experts, and industry leaders from across Africa and beyond to discuss advancements in air power and regional security cooperation.

    “We are expecting over 2,000 participants at the Conference and Exhibitions that are scheduled for 22 and 23 May 25. Over 30 air forces and 12 chiefs of air staff, 45 exhibitors including major defense and aerospace players like Airbus, Embraer, Diamond Aircraft, HAVELSAN, Jet Aviation, Starlite Aviation Group, Proforce and of course our own Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria. At the end of the Conferences and exhibitions, there will be a welcome Cocktail and Canape in the evening of 22 May 25 and a farewell VIP dinner for the visiting air chiefs in the evening of 23 May 25.”

    He emphasized the NAF’s transformation over the past six decades and its leading role in combating terrorism and other security threats through precision air operations, surveillance, and collaboration with other security agencies.

    “May I also use this medium to inform the public, especially the good people of Abuja and Lagos States, not to panic when they observe increased flying activities, particularly at low levels,“ he said. 

  • Anniversary: NAF begins aerial rehearsals in Abuja, Lagos

    Anniversary: NAF begins aerial rehearsals in Abuja, Lagos

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will begin aerial display rehearsals in Abuja and Lagos as part of preparations for activities marking the 61st anniversary celebration, slated for May 23.

    NAF’s spokesman,Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, announced this in a statement on Monday.

    Read Also: NAF boosts air power against terrorists with nine fighter jets

    He said the display are designed to enhance the spectacle of the celebration’s grand finale and to demonstrate NAF’s professionalism and operational capabilities.

    “Residents are kindly advised not to panic but to go about their normal activities, as the rehearsals are carefully planned and executed with strict adherence to safety standards,” he said.

  • NAF: 1,150 terrorists neutralised in North West operation in 17 months

    NAF: 1,150 terrorists neutralised in North West operation in 17 months

    The Nigerian Air Force and Army’s joint operations resulted in the neutralisation of over 1,150 terrorists and the destruction of 669 structures in the North West over 17 months, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has said.

    Air Marshal Abubakar said this while delivering a lecture to participants of Army War College Nigeria’s Course 9/2025 in Abuja, on Friday.

    He said, “In the past year alone, the Air Component of the Northeast Operation conducted 1,026 sorties, encompassing intensive Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Air Interdiction, and Armed Reconnaissance missions.

    “These operations amassed over 2,236 flight hours and have played a vital role in restoring peace across several troubled Local Government Areas within the theatre.

    Read Also: NAF boosts air power against terrorists with nine fighter jets

    “Additionally, under the Northwest, since June 2023, air-ground synergy has led to the neutralisation of multiple insurgent and bandit leaders and the destruction of over 265 terrorist hideouts in Sector 1 alone. In Sector 2, joint efforts have neutralised more than 1,150 terrorists and destroyed 404 criminal structures”.

    The NAF boss said these feats were made possible through NAF’s enhanced Concept of Operations (CONOPS), which is tailored to deliver decisive and synchronised effects in joint military campaigns.

    According to him, a key feature of the recalibration is the seamless integration of manned and unmanned aerial platforms, enhanced communication systems, and real-time data links to boost situational awareness and enable faster, precision-based decision-making.

    He said, “To enhance our CONOPS to address emerging security challenges, we will work towards seamless integration of both manned and unmanned air assets, to achieve decisive airpower effects.

    “This approach ensures greater agility and responsiveness in joint operations.” A core component of this operational enhancement is synergy with sister services, particularly the Nigerian Army.”

    Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre-led Air-to-Ground Integration (AGI) initiative, which now serves as a critical framework for harmonising air and land operations.

    “Our enhanced CONOPS would feature better synergy, interoperability, and effectiveness with sister services in joint operations,” he said.

    “The NAF remains committed to leading in air-to-ground integration to ensure coordinated and efficient battlefield outcomes.” 

  • NAF boosts air power against terrorists with nine fighter jets

    NAF boosts air power against terrorists with nine fighter jets

    • 49 more aircraft coming
    • Badaru: terrorists’ leaders among 13,543 killed

    Terrorists and bandits are in for tough times with the acquisition of nine new fighter jets by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

    Forty-nine more fighter aircraft are expected to join the fleet, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said yesterday.

    He said NAF strikes killed 3,496 terrorists in the Northeast since June 2023, with more than 121,000 insurgents and their families surrendering to security forces.

    Also yesterday, Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, and Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said security forces have stepped up the battle against insurgency.

    Badaru said over 124,408 insurgents surrendered in the past two years, while 13,543 terrorists and bandits, including some of their prominent leaders and commanders, were killed by combined security forces.

    According to him, some of the neutralised terrorist commanders include Abu Bilal Minuki, Haruna Isiya Boderi, Kachallah Alhaji Dayi, Kachallah Idi, Kachallah Kabiru, Kachallah Azailaru, and Alhaji Baldu.

    Air Marshal Abubakar spoke during a lecture he delivered at the Air Force War College in Makurdi, Benue State.

    Badaru and Idris spoke during the seventh edition of the Ministerial Briefing in Abuja.

    Air Marshal Abubakar stressed that the targeted investments by the Tinubu Administration have significantly bolstered NAF’s operational capabilities.

    He said: “These acquisitions will further expand the service’s capacity to execute complex missions and maintain momentum in ongoing air operations.”

    He said last year, the NAF flew over 4,500 hours across 2,304 sorties, executing nearly 2,000 counterinsurgency missions.

    “Additionally, over 2,600 anti-banditry sorties were carried out, resulting in 4,670 hours of flight time.

    “In support of efforts to combat economic sabotage, the NAF conducted 366 sorties targeting crude oil theft and illegal refining, amassing more than 1,450 hours of flight time.

    Read Also: NAF trains army personnel on aviation fuel handling 

    “These figures are not mere statistics; they represent real missions, real risks, and real outcomes.

    “Through the strategic deployment of both kinetic and non-kinetic air power, we have disrupted oil theft syndicates and secured critical infrastructure,” he said.

    He cited recent data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission showing a 13 per cent increase in crude oil and condensate production in Q4 2024.

    He attributed the growth to effective air operations and security collaboration.

    Air Marshal Abubakar urged the next generation of Air Force leaders to embrace strategic command challenges.

    “Your leadership, professionalism, and resolve will determine the Air Force’s ability to meet current and future security threats,” he said.

    Idris: security top on Fed Govt’s agenda

    Idris said strengthening national security is top on the Tinubu Administration’s agenda, which he added explains the huge investment in acquisitions of modern equipment.

    “The Tinubu Administration has demonstrated this resolve not merely through words, but through concrete actions – including the acquisition of advanced platforms and armaments, enhanced intelligence gathering, intensive training and retraining of personnel, and strategic global partnerships.”

    The minister urged the media to support the military in the discharge of its responsibility.

    He said: “The media, as gatekeepers and partners in nation-building, have a crucial role to play in supporting our military’s morale by highlighting their successes and sacrifices.

    “Our armed forces are not only respected by global allies but also feared by those who threaten our collective peace.

    “It is equally important to recognise that the fight against insecurity is not limited to kinetic approaches.

    “It is also a battle for the hearts and minds of our people – one that terrorist groups are actively exploiting through propaganda, especially on social media platforms.

    “I, therefore, call on our media professionals and editors to be discerning in their reportage.

    “We must deny these groups the undue publicity they crave.

    “We must take them off the front pages and accurately report them as the criminals they are, without glorifying their acts or giving credence to their false narratives.

    “These are not freedom fighters; they are murderers, kidnappers, and destroyers, and they must be presented as such.

    “Let us remember that responsible and patriotic journalism is essential to building a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria – one that holds promise not just for our nation, but for the stability and development of the entire West African sub-region and the African continent at large.”

    Badaru: military not inferior to terrorists

    Badaru faulted claims by federal lawmakers that terrorists have the upper hand over military troops.

    The criticism followed attacks on military bases in Borno.

    The lawmakers had claimed that the attacks showed Boko Haram and ISWAP were better equipped.

    But the minister attributed the attacks to terrorists’ irregular warfare tactics aided by local informants, not military inferiority.

    Badaru said: “That is absolutely not true. We have much more sophisticated weapons and much more sophisticated drones.

    “The issue is, this war is not a conventional war. It is like a guerrilla war. They watch us, they have informants around us. They give them information.

    “They don’t have more equipment than we do. We have much more. We have much more sophisticated equipment.”

    The minister said over 17,469 suspected criminals were arrested in two years, while 9,821 kidnap victims, including women and children, were rescued across the country.

    “Cast your mind back to two years ago. People could not travel from Abuja to Kaduna, Birnin Gwari to Kaduna, Abuja to Lokoja, and so many other roads freely.

    “But today, the story is different. Nigerians are now travelling freely,” he said.

    Badaru attributed the resurgence to infiltration of terrorists from neighbouring countries as a result of rising insecurity in the Sahelian region, especially in Niger, Mali, Cameroun, Republic of Benin and Chad Republic.

    He said the use of drones by terrorists was no cause for alarm as they were civilian drones modified for surveillance, not military-grade or weaponised ones.

    Badaru said 10 of 53 companies under the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) have started producing military hardware, including drones, aircraft parts, and protective gear, as part of efforts towards self-sufficiency.

    “We are working to see if we can sustain a section in Ajaokuta that will support our efforts to make DICON more vibrant,” Badaru said.

  • NAF trains army personnel on aviation fuel handling 

    NAF trains army personnel on aviation fuel handling 

    The Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) has launched a specialised training programme in Aviation Fuel Handling and Administration for personnel of the Nigerian Army Aviation, with the objective of enhancing their proficiency in the safe and efficient handling of aviation fuel.

    Spokesman of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, announced this in a statement on Tuesday.

    The Nigerian Army had in June 2024, operationalised its aviation wing with the delivery of two new helicopters, as part of its determined effort to strengthen its capacity in the ongoing fight against insurgency and terrorism.

    Air Commodore Ejodame said the initiative was a key step towards fostering greater inter-service collaboration and improving joint operational effectiveness between the Nigerian Army and the Air Force.

    Read Also: Ijaw youths hail DSS for seizing 57 AK-47 rifles, arresting UK’s army major

    He said: “This technical training course is a significant stride in capacity building, designed to equip participants with the requisite knowledge and hands-on skills for managing Aviation Bulk Fuel Installations, conducting aircraft fuelling operations, ensuring aviation fuel quality control, operating bowsers, and executing other critical tasks that support the operational readiness of the Nigerian Army Aviation.

    “The training objective reflects the visionary leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, whose commitment to deliberate, mission-oriented training underscores the strategic importance of Logistics support in successful military operations.

    “The CAS expressed optimism that such initiatives will further reinforce the effectiveness of joint operations and enhance national defence capabilities.”

  • NAF gets first professor of aerospace engineering

    NAF gets first professor of aerospace engineering

    The Governing Council of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), has approved the appointment of AVM Osichinaka Ubadike, a serving officer, as Professor of Aerospace Engineering.

    This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, yesterday in Abuja.

    Ejodame said the appointment was a landmark achievement for the NAF and a major boost to its research and development (R&D) endeavours.

    This, according to him, makes Ubadike the first-ever serving officer in the NAF to be conferred the rank of Professor.

    “AVM Ubadike, an accomplished scholar and military professional, holds a PhD and Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering and Aerospace Vehicle Design from the esteemed Cranfield University in the United Kingdom.

    Read Also: Air Vice Marshal Chiedu: Meet NAF’s first serving officer to be promoted to rank of professor

    “He also possesses three other Masters degrees from Ahmadu Bello University and Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), with a First-Class Bachelor of Electrical Electronics Engineering degree from NDA.

    “He has led several cutting-edge research initiatives within the NAF, including his pivotal role in the development of the indigenous NAF Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).

    “The UAV project demonstrates the Air Force’s expanding technical capabilities and strategic independence,” he said.

    Ejodame said the AFIT Governing Council also confirmed the appointment of retired AVM Paul Jemitola, as a Professor of Aerospace Engineering.

    He said that Prof. Jemitola, the immediate past Commandant of AFIT, was widely respected for his expertise in multidisciplinary and multi-objective aircraft design optimization.

    “He holds a Master’s degree and PhD from Cranfield University and was the lead designer of the NAF UAV project.

    “He is a chartered engineer in the United Kingdom and currently serves as the Acting Vice Chancellor of Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos,” he added.

    The NAF spokesman said the conferment of the professors was a testament to the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, to prioritise technological advancement through education, capacity-building and R&D.

    He quoted CAS as saying, “we will continue to invest in the empowerment of our flagship training and capacity development institutions to progressively minimise dependence on foreign expertise”.

    Ejodame said the approach reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to academic excellence and R&D to cultivate homegrown expertise capable of meeting evolving national security and aerospace challenges.

  • Air Vice Marshal Chiedu: Meet NAF’s first serving officer to be promoted to rank of professor

    Air Vice Marshal Chiedu: Meet NAF’s first serving officer to be promoted to rank of professor

    Air Vice Marshal Osichinaka Chiedu Ubadike has made history as the first serving officer in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to be appointed a Professor.

    A brilliant scholar and seasoned military officer, Ubadike’s achievements span across groundbreaking research, advanced aerospace engineering, and leadership in developing indigenous technology.

    His journey from a First-Class engineering graduate to a leader in aerospace innovation, is a shining example of what dedication and vision can achieve.

    Ubadike’s story marks a new era of academic excellence and innovation within Nigeria’s defense sector.

    Here are 10 things to know about Air Vice Marshal Chiedu, NAF’s first serving officer to be promoted to rank of professor

    1. He made history as the first-ever serving officer in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to be appointed a Professor.

    2. Ubadike holds a PhD and a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering and Aerospace Vehicle Design from Cranfield University, UK.

    Read Also: I’m a bonafide member of Celestial Church – KWAM 1

    3. He possesses three additional Master’s degrees from Ahmadu Bello University and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).

    4. He graduated with a First-Class Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from NDA.

    5. He was instrumental in the development of NAF’s indigenous Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), enhancing Nigeria’s airpower and self-sufficiency.

    6. Ubadike has led numerous cutting-edge research initiatives within the Nigerian Air Force, driving forward its technical capabilities.

    7. His work aligns with the Chief of Air Staff’s vision to build local capacity and reduce dependence on foreign technical assistance.

    8. He perfectly blends academic brilliance with military professionalism, setting a new standard within the Nigerian military.

    9. Ubadike’s journey inspires both young military officers and engineering students aspiring to combine operational excellence with academic achievements.

    10. Through his appointment, he paves the way for more serving officers to pursue higher education and contribute intellectually to national defense.