By Joy Odor
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has informed that it will be hosting about thirty Air Forces and ten Chief of Air Staff during its 60th Anniversary Celebration between 23rd and 25th May 2024 in Abuja and Kaduna respectively.
This is even as the Service would unveiled its newly licensed NAF Micro Finance Bank and the commissioning of several projects completed by the current leadership of the NAF in Abuja.
The Chairman, Organizing Committee, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), 60th Anniversary Celebration, Air Vice Marshal Michael Ekweme who stated this in a Press briefing said the theme of the celebration is “Nigerian Air Force at 60: Leveraging Strategic Partnerships in Aerospace Innovations for Regional Security” aimed at building on partnerships to address contemporary security challenges not only in the country, but across the African region.
According to him, there will also be an Inter Denominational Church Service on 19 May, 2024 in all NAF bases while the August visitors will participate in the Third African Air Forces Forum Conference, and Exhibition, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.
He disclosed that DICON will be leading the Nigerian military industrial complex, made up of several local defence equipment manufacturers such as EPAIL, a local manufacturer of ballistic vests, helmets and armoured vehicles, to exhibit during the conference.
Other activities, he said include, “medical outreaches to various host communities tomorrow Wednesday 15 May, 2024; followed by Juma’at prayers on Friday 17 May, 2024 in all NAF units.
“On Saturday, 18 May, 2024, there will be an outreach by the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) in Abuja. Due to the emphasis on R&D in the NAF, there will be an Inter-Command Research and Development Competition on the same Saturday 18 May, 2024 here in Abuja.
“We are expecting over 2,000 participants at the Conference and exhibition, over 30 air forces and 10 chiefs of air staff, 40 exhibitors including major defence and aerospace players such as Airbus, Embraer, Diamond Aircraft, HAVELSAN, Jet Aviation, and of course our own DICON.
“You will witness innovative solutions and projects undertaken and supported by the NAF leadership led by Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar. There will also be a Golf Kitty on Saturday 18 May 2024 at NAF Base Bill Clinton Drive Abuja”.
“This year, the NAF will be celebrating its 60 years of existence. This Diamond jubilee anniversary is not only a time for celebration but also a moment for deep reflection on our accomplishments, challenges and charting the way forward.
“Throughout our rich history, the NAF has overcome numerous obstacles, adapted to evolving threats and subsequently emerged stronger and more resilient. There is no doubt that the Service has grown over the years into a formidable and respected force within the African continent and beyond.
“The NAF has continued to fulfil its mandate of securing the territorial integrity of our dear nation through effective application of air power.
“It is pertinent to note that the NAF has made appreciable progress and significant contributions in the areas of internal security, humanitarian assistance, peace-keeping operations, as well as restoration and sustenance of democracy in the African continent. The Service has also made giant strides in the area of Research & Development.
It is only rational therefore, to celebrate its existence as well as the laudable achievements of the past six decades” he stressed.
This, according to him, is in line with one of the key enablers of the Chief of the Air Staff’s Command Philosophy which is prioritising research and development, leveraging cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships.
