…celebrates anniversary with renewed drive for regional defence collaboration
By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is marking its 61st anniversary with a renewed pledge to national security, highlighting decades of transformation and the growing role of regional cooperation in air power and defense innovation.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, Chairman of the NAF@61 Organising Committee and the 4th African Air Forces Forum, Air Commodore Sylvester Eyoma, said the Service had undergone remarkable changes in its structure, manpower, and equipment holding.
“Over the decades, the Nigerian Air Force has evolved into a formidable and professional force, delivering effectively on its constitutional responsibilities,” he said. “We have been at the forefront of efforts to combat insurgency, terrorism, and other security threats across the country.”
According to him, the NAF has leveraged advanced technologies and coordinated joint operations to disrupt criminal networks and protect national integrity. “Through precision air strikes, coordinated operations, and advanced surveillance, we have recorded significant operational successes. These have contributed to weakening terrorists’ networks, disrupting their logistics, and supporting ongoing efforts of our troops and other security agencies,” he stated.
Eyoma said the 61st anniversary was an opportunity to honour the Air Force’s legacy of “dedication to duty and unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty.”
The theme of the celebration, “Optimising Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations,” reflects the Service’s appreciation of civilian support in national defence. “The citizenry is a worthy partner in our efforts to secure the country,” Eyoma noted.
He highlighted several ongoing and upcoming events as part of the commemoration. These include the Chief of the Air Staff’s Literary Competition, which ran from February 10 to 22, and Open Day visits and career talks held across NAF bases, which provided the public an opportunity to interact with airmen and learn more about the Air Force.
As part of its civil engagement efforts, the NAF will also inaugurate a clinic in Rukubi, Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State—one of the communities affected by an unfortunate airstrike in January 2023.
Another major highlight of the anniversary will be the formal induction of the Augusta 109S Trekker helicopter into the Presidential Air Fleet. The ceremony, expected to be attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will take place at the 011 Presidential Air Fleet Base.
Eyoma further disclosed that the celebration will culminate in the 4th African Air Forces Forum scheduled for May 22 and 23 in Lagos. The forum is themed “Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security.”
He said the high-level gathering will bring together over 2,000 participants, including 12 Chiefs of Air Staff, 30 air forces, and 45 industry exhibitors such as Airbus, Embraer, Diamond Aircraft, Havelsan, Jet Aviation, Pro-force, and Nigeria’s Defence Industries Corporation.
“This is an opportunity to consolidate our achievements and enhance multilateral cooperation through innovation and shared strategy,” he concluded.
The press briefing was attended by senior NAF officers and members of the press.
