By Nkechi Eze
Former Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao (Rtd.), has identified unity and high morale as indispensable foundations of operational success, describing them as critical to sustaining effectiveness within the Nigerian Air Force. He made the remarks during the Base Social Activities (BASA) 2025, held in Abuja on Saturday, 7 February 2026.
The event, which brought together Nigerian Air Force personnel, their families and key stakeholders, was marked by colourful cultural displays and social interactions celebrating service, culture and shared identity. The development was disclosed in an official signed statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, Air Marshal Amao (Rtd.) commended the Nigerian Air Force for preserving BASA as a defining feature of its institutional culture. He noted that the initiative goes beyond mere celebration, serving as a strategic platform for strengthening cohesion among personnel drawn from Nigeria’s rich diversity. According to him, such cohesion remains fundamental to building a strong, resilient and effective fighting force.
The former Air Chief also praised the leadership of the current Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, noting that under his guidance, BASA has evolved into a powerful symbol of unity and purpose within the Service. “Under Air Marshal Aneke’s guidance, BASA has become more than a social event; it is a living testament to how unity and morale drive operational excellence,” he said.
Reflecting on the vibrant cultural performances that characterised the occasion, Air Marshal Amao observed that they symbolised a nation united in service. He noted that the spirit of togetherness displayed at the event could not be imposed through regulations, but is cultivated through shared experiences that highlight common humanity beyond professional roles. According to him, such moments nurture esprit de corps, strengthen trust and reinforce the psychological resilience required for demanding military operations.
Air Marshal Amao (Rtd.) further lauded the Nigerian Air Force for its operational performance in 2025 across multiple theatres, attributing its effectiveness partly to the morale and unity reinforced through initiatives such as BASA. He stressed that sustaining this bond remains essential as the Service continues to confront evolving security challenges in defence of the nation.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander, Base Services Group, Abuja, Air Commodore I.E. Imoke, warmly received distinguished guests, personnel and their families. He described BASA 2025 as a unifying platform that promotes camaraderie, welfare and shared values within the Nigerian Air Force community, noting that the event strengthens bonds beyond the workplace and renews collective commitment to the Service’s mission.
BASA 2025 concluded on a note of pride and optimism, reaffirming the belief that a united force is a strong force. The Nigerian Air Force, the event underscored, remains committed to nurturing the human spirit behind its operational strength, reinforcing unity, mutual respect and shared purpose as enduring pillars for building a secure and prosperous nation.
