By Tola Gbadamosi

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has hailed the current era of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as a “Golden Era” under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

This remark was made during the official reception of 14 advanced aircraft at the NAF Headquarters, an event which marks a significant milestone in the Air Force’s modernisation efforts.

Air Marshal Abubakar revealed that the aircraft are part of a broader plan to acquire 64 advanced units within three years.

The development, disclosed by the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, on January 9, 2025, highlights the administration’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities.

The CAS expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Defence for its support in bolstering the NAF’s operational readiness.

He further acknowledged the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for his visit to the NAF Headquarters, pledging to maintain strong collaboration between the two institutions.

Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, the newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, commended the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies for their collective efforts in addressing insurgency and other security challenges nationwide.

Speaking during his maiden visit to the Air Force Headquarters, he reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing the welfare and operational capacity of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

As part of his visit, Ambassador Aduda received a commemorative souvenir and toured the HQ NAF Memorial Arcade.

At the arcade, he laid a wreath and led a minute’s silence in honour of fallen heroes, a gesture symbolising the enduring partnership between the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Air Force in safeguarding the nation.

The event highlighted the significance of collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and the NAF in achieving national security goals.