The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has unveiled a packed schedule of activities to commemorate its 61st anniversary, with key highlights including the induction of the Augusta 109S Trekker Helicopter, commissioning of community projects, and an aerial display grand finale in Lagos.
Chairman of the anniversary organizing committee, Air Commodore Sylvester Eyoma, made the announcement on Tuesday during a press briefing in Abuja.
Eyoma revealed that the induction ceremony for the newly acquired Augusta 109S Trekker helicopter into the 011 Presidential Air Fleet will take place on Friday, 16 May 2025, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expected as the Special Guest of Honour.
He added that Jumaat prayers will also hold across all NAF units on the same day, as part of nationwide celebrations.
In a move toward reconciliation and community rebuilding, the NAF will inaugurate a newly constructed hospital in Rukubi Community, Doma Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, where a mistaken airstrike in January 2023 resulted in civilian casualties.
“On Thursday, there will be the commissioning of Quick Impact Projects across NAF operations theatres. One of the key projects is a clinic in Rukubi Community, underscoring the Air Force’s commitment to healing and rebuilding trust with the public,” Eyoma stated.
In addition, the Air Force will host an African Air Forces Conference and Exhibition on May 22 and 23, featuring over 2,000 participants, including 12 Chiefs of Air Staff and delegations from more than 30 African air forces. Major global defense companies such as Airbus, Embraer, Diamond Aircraft, HAVELSAN, Proforce, and Nigeria’s Defence Industries Corporation (DICON) are expected to showcase cutting-edge technology.
To cap off the anniversary celebrations, the NAF will hold a grand finale aerial display in Lagos on Friday, 23 May 2025, featuring a vibrant showcase of aircraft maneuverability and operational capability. Rehearsals for the event commenced on Thursday, 8 May 2025.
The Air Force has advised residents of Lagos and Abuja to remain calm and avoid panic during periods of low-level flying activity, which are part of routine drills ahead of the display.
“The aerial display aims to add glamour to the celebrations and boost operational readiness,” a statement from the NAF read. “Members of the public are kindly requested to go about their lawful activities and not be alarmed.”
Eyoma concluded by emphasizing the Nigerian Air Force’s transformation over the past six decades and its ongoing contributions to national security through precision air operations, intelligence, and collaboration with other security agencies.
