By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
In a rousing tribute to teamwork, morale, and shared purpose, former Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao (Rtd.), has declared that unity and high morale are the true engines of operational success during the Nigerian Air Force’s Base Social Activities (BASA) 2025.
The event, held on Saturday, 7 February 2026, at the NAF Abuja base, brought together personnel, families, and key stakeholders in a vibrant celebration of service, culture, and institutional pride.
As Special Guest of Honour, Air Marshal Amao (Rtd.) lauded the current leadership of Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, noting that under his stewardship, BASA has evolved from a social gathering into a strategic morale and cohesion platform.
“BASA is more than a celebration,” Amao emphasized. “It is a living testament to how unity and esprit de corps directly translate into operational excellence.”
The former CAS highlighted the colourful cultural displays, describing them as a symbol of national unity in action.
“This spirit cannot be manufactured by regulation; it is built in moments like this, when we recognize our shared humanity beyond professional roles,” he said, stressing that such gatherings strengthen trust, psychological resilience, and teamwork critical for demanding military operations.
Air Marshal Amao further praised the NAF’s operational performance in 2025 across multiple theatres, attributing its effectiveness in part to the morale and cohesion reinforced through initiatives like BASA.
He called for continued investment in the human element of defence, noting that a united and motivated force is the backbone of Nigeria’s security.
Earlier, the Commander of Base Services Group, Abuja, Air Commodore I.E. Imoke, welcomed distinguished guests and personnel, describing BASA 2025 as a platform that promotes camaraderie, welfare, and shared values within the Nigerian Air Force.
He highlighted the event’s role in fostering bonds beyond the workplace and renewing commitment to the Service’s mission.
The celebration closed on a note of pride, optimism, and renewed commitment, underscoring the NAF’s belief that operational strength is inseparable from the unity and morale of its personnel.
BASA 2025 reaffirmed a simple but powerful message: a united force is a strong force, and with cohesion, respect, and shared purpose, the future of Nigeria’s Air Force and the nation is bright.
