By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified preparations for the induction of advanced combat platforms, commissioning critical infrastructure at NAF Base Kaduna to ready a new generation of pilots for modern air operations.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on 13 February 2026 inaugurated key projects at the base, describing the development as a strategic investment in the Service’s future airpower capability.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Air Chief said the completion of six blocks of 12 one-bedroom Student Pilots’ Quarters represents a major milestone in preparing officers who will operate incoming sophisticated aircraft.
“In this regard, the completion of the Student Pilots’ Quarters is a major step in preparing pilots who will operate modern advanced aircraft, enabling the projection of smart and decisive airpower to eliminate terrorist threats while safeguarding our people,” he stated.
In a statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS stressed that the commissioning goes beyond infrastructure development.
“My mission here is not just about buildings but about fulfilling my command philosophy, to enhance and sustain a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces for the realisation of national security objectives,” he said.
Air Marshal Aneke expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his sustained support to the Armed Forces, particularly in strengthening the NAF’s operational fleet.
“We salute President Tinubu for his unwavering support to national security, as demonstrated by his bilateral engagement with the Government of the Republic of Türkiye for defence equipment, including the acquisition of advanced helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for the Nigerian Air Force,” he added.
Highlighting ongoing transformation efforts, the CAS disclosed that strategic defence engagements in the United States, Italy and Türkiye are already yielding tangible outcomes. He revealed that the Service is fast-tracking the procurement of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters to enhance operational effectiveness across the full spectrum of air operations.
Beyond the Student Pilots’ Quarters, other projects commissioned include a block of six three-bedroom flats initiated by the Ministry of Defence and completed by the NAF, as well as a block of 30 one-bedroom studio apartments for airmen and airwomen of the Military Training Centre.
The Air Chief urged personnel to uphold discipline and professionalism in the use of the new facilities.
“Use these structures with care and a deep sense of responsibility. Let them reflect a strong culture of maintenance and pride, ensuring they remain a source of comfort and dignity for current and future occupants,” he charged.
He commended former Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal HB Abubakar, for the foresight in initiating the projects and praised the Logistics Branch, the Air Officer Commanding and contractors for their timely delivery. He also acknowledged the Federal Government and the leadership of the National Assembly for facilitating the fiscal releases that made the developments possible.
Reaffirming the Service’s alignment with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the CAS pledged that the NAF would remain a critical stakeholder in the realisation of a safe, secure and prosperous Nigeria.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshal EP Efanga, described the projects as a significant boost to operational readiness and personnel welfare.
“These facilities mark a significant milestone in strengthening operational readiness and improving personnel welfare. They will play a key role in preparing our pilots to operate the advanced platforms that will shape the future of the Nigerian Air Force,” he said, expressing gratitude to the CAS for his unwavering support to the Command.
