By Nkechi Eze
Rt. Hon. Tajuddeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, has called on newly promoted senior Nigerian Air Force officers to commit wholeheartedly to nation-building in their new roles. Abbas made this plea at a decoration ceremony held at the NAF Officers’ Mess and Suites in Abuja on December 24, 2024.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives represented by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu CON, stressed that the newly promoted officers have taken on greater responsibilities.
Hon. Abbas emphasized that achieving a higher air rank is a remarkable achievement that also serves as a motivator, but it’s accompanied by significant responsibilities. He noted that as senior officers, they have received comprehensive training to lead effectively and strategically.
Hon. Abbas urged the officers to reaffirm their dedication to combating terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity, which will contribute to a more secure and prosperous Nigeria.
The ceremony honored 19 Air Commodores who were promoted to Air Vice Marshal (AVM) and 31 Group Captains who were elevated to Air Commodore (Air Cdre). The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, and the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, who hosted the ceremony. Also in attendance was Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu, among other notable dignitaries.
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS) showcased the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) impressive achievements over the past year, highlighting the induction of 13 new aircraft and the reactivation of critical platforms like the Super Puma and ATR-42. These advancements have significantly strengthened counter-terrorism efforts and enhanced national asset protection. The CAS commended the newly promoted officers for their unwavering dedication, urging them to embody excellence and determination in their new roles while aligning with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sani, urged the newly promoted officers to live up to the heightened expectations that come with their new roles. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the trust placed in them, and to remain diligent, dedicated, and selfless in their service to the Nigerian Air Force and the nation. This ceremony reinforced the NAF’s ongoing dedication to cultivating exceptional leadership and ensuring Nigeria’s security and prosperity.
