The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has assured that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will locate and eliminate terrorists wherever they are hiding.
He also assured that the NAF would continue to defend “every inch of our nation’s airspace” and stand firm in joint operations to protect lives and property across the country.
“Rest assured that your protection is not just an obligation, it is our highest priority,” Air Marshal Abubakar declared during the Second Quarter Route March in Abuja on Wednesday.
The NAF chief reaffirmed the service’s unwavering commitment to defending Nigeria’s airspace and protecting lives and property.
He said, “We will continue to defend every inch of our nation’s airspace and stand firm in joint operations to protect lives and property across the country. Rest assured, that your protection is not just an obligation, it is our highest priority.
“To the enemies of our nation, know this: there will be no hiding place for those who threaten the peace and stability of Nigeria. We are coming for you. We will find you and take you out.”
While noting that the journey toward national security and lasting peace is marked by challenges and obstacles, the NAF chief emphasised the significance of troops’ resilience to defeat the country’s adversaries.
“Be that as it may, those who persevere, who stay the course with discipline, focus, and resilience, will ultimately arrive at the destination. And that destination, ladies and gentlemen, is the place of victory.”
The NAF boss thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support to the Armed Forces and his investment in operational effectiveness and personnel welfare.
“On behalf of the officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force, I reaffirm our unwavering loyalty to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,” he said.
Air Marshal Abubakar emphasised the significance of physical fitness tests in the NAF, noting that physical fitness is no longer a matter of choice but a non-negotiable requirement.
“As a matter of policy, I have directed that all Performance Evaluation Reports must be accompanied by a Physical Fitness Test Certificate,” he said.
“Furthermore, no personnel will be considered for promotion without being medically and physically fit.”
The CAS said he had approved the construction of modern sporting facilities across several NAF Bases and the procurement of advanced gym equipment for over 22 units, which would soon be distributed and installed.
“Let today’s route march be a reminder of who we are and what we stand for,” he said.
“Let it rekindle our fighting spirit and reinforce our shared commitment to the defence of Nigeria. We are not just marching on roads, we are marching towards purpose, honour, and victory.”
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.
