By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force to improving the welfare of its personnel through the provision of affordable post-service housing schemes for officers and airmen.
Air Marshal Aneke made the pledge during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Nigerian Air Force Estates project held on March 12, 2026, an initiative of NAFIL Housing and Construction Company aimed at providing sustainable housing solutions for retiring personnel.
The housing initiative, which forms part of the Service’s broader personnel welfare programme, aligns with the Chief of the Air Staff’s command philosophy of prioritising the well-being of personnel as a critical factor in sustaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in support of Nigeria’s national security objectives.
Representing the CAS at the ceremony, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Abubakar Abdullahi, acknowledged the rising cost of land acquisition and building materials but assured personnel that the Air Force remains committed to ensuring affordability across various housing categories.
He announced that airmen would benefit from a 10 per cent discount on bungalow units at the NAF estates located in Giri and Idu, encouraging eligible personnel to take advantage of the opportunity to secure dignified and sustainable accommodation for themselves and their families after retirement.
Air Vice Marshal Abdullahi noted that the increasing personnel strength of the Air Force, driven by ongoing recruitment efforts necessitated by prevailing security challenges, has further intensified the demand for additional accommodation and infrastructure within the Service.
He stated that the Nigerian Air Force is working diligently to bridge the existing gaps in barracks accommodation while also expanding post-service housing opportunities for its personnel.
The Chief of the Air Staff also revealed that the Federal Government has committed significant resources to the modernisation of the Air Force fleet, with plans underway to induct 64 new aircraft platforms into the Service in the coming years.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continued support towards strengthening the operational capacity of the Air Force.
Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in line with its constitutional mandate.
Earlier in his remarks, the Group Managing Director of the NAFIL Group of Companies, Ibitayo Ajiboye, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to delivering high-quality and affordable housing projects as part of efforts to support the Air Force’s broader personnel welfare agenda.
He noted that the NAF estates project reflects a strategic investment in the long-term welfare of serving and retiring personnel, ensuring they have access to comfortable and secure housing as they transition into post-service life.
