NAF to purchase 50 new aircraft by 2026, says Air Chief

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has announced that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will take delivery of 50 brand new aircraft between December 2023 and 2026.

Speaking at the second biannual meeting with Branch Chiefs and Air Officers Commanding in Abuja, Abubakar highlighted this development as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the NAF’s operational capabilities.

He also noted that 12 new aircraft have already been inducted into the NAF’s inventory over the past year, marking a significant achievement for the force. The Air Chief emphasized the need for innovative thinking, resilience, and dedication as the NAF continues to modernize its fleet.

Abubakar called on officers to maintain high standards of professionalism, integrity, and loyalty as they work toward advancing the mission of the Nigerian Air Force.

“A few months ago, we celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force, which ushered us into a golden era of transformation and evolution.

“Over the past years, we have successfully inducted 12 aircrafts into our inventory, and God willing, we shall take delivery of 50 brand new aircrafts between December this year and 2026.

“This is a remarkable achievement that we have not witnessed in a very long time.

“Indeed, these are exciting times that demand innovative thinking, resilience, and dedication.

“I am confident that, under your leadership, the men and women under your commands will rise to the occasion and excel in all tasks set before them,” he said.

The CAS said that several critical issues were discussed leading to a number of resolutions and recommendations during the last meeting with Branch chiefs and AOCs in June.

He said that a number of those resolutions had been implemented including the establishment of two new staff branches, namely the Civil Military Relations Branch and NAF Transformation and Innovation Branch.

“Over the past few months, we have also seen progress in several key areas.

“Our air operations, particularly the expanded counterinsurgency in the North-West region as well as anti-oil theft operations in the South-South have yielded significant results.

“This would not have been possible without the transformational leadership of Branch Chiefs and AOCs as well as the relentless efforts and dedication of the officers and men of the Nigerian Air Force.

“It is your tireless work, both on the front lines and behind the scenes, that drives our mission forward.

“Inspite of our successes, more needs to be done, especially as regards the application of airpower to meet national security imperatives,” he added.

Abubakar said the meeting would offer them the opportunity to critically review progress, address shortcomings, recalibrate strategies and strengthen their unity of purpose towards achieving the desired objectives.

He said the decisions made from the forum must be grounded in sound judgment and a firm grasp of their objectives.

(NAN)