The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted over 8,665 missions and 9,928 sorties within 15,915 flying hours across all aircraft types between June 2023 and December 2024.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja while playing host to the permanent secretary, Ministry of Defence, Gabriel Aduda, who was on a familiarisation tour of the Defence and Services Headquarters.

Mr Abubakar said the feat underscored the magnitude of the relentless air efforts in all theatres of operations, including Operations Hadin Kai, Fansan Yamma, Delta Safe, Safe Haven, AWA TSE, UDO KA and Whirl Stroke.

“So far, our personnel have demonstrated professionalism, resilience and unwavering dedication in the face of evolving security challenges.

“However, these efforts greatly depend on the continuous and solid support from the Ministry of Defence,” he said.

Mr Abubakar lauded President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of Mr Aduda, describing it as an excellent choice.

He said his appointment was apt, given his outstanding pedigree as a five-time permanent secretary in various ministries, including Foreign Affairs, Women Affairs, and Petroleum Resources.

Mr Abubakar expressed confidence that Mr Aduda’s leadership and expertise were poised to significantly address the critical challenge of insecurity in the country.

He said the ministry‘s steadfast support had enabled NAF to fulfil its mandate as a critical component of Nigeria’s defence architecture.

The CAS said NAF had witnessed a remarkable transformation, as evident in the revitalisation of its fleet and enhanced operational readiness.

According to him, NAF has taken delivery of 14 brand new advanced aircraft as part of 64 aircraft, which will be delivered in the space of three years.

Responding, Mr Aduda said the decision to visit the services was in recognition that it was the services that gave the ministry its effective performance and maximise efficiency strategically, operationally and tactically.

Mr Aduda assured the CAS that the ministry would give him maximum cooperation and work with him collaboratively to ensure that his dreams and aspirations were accelerated and achieved.

“So, I want to thank you once again for the very good work that I enjoyed. I and my team want to assure you that we’re looking forward to taking this further,” he said.

 (NAN)