The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has announced that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will acquire 50 new aircraft between December 2023 and 2026. This was revealed during the second biannual meeting with Branch Chiefs and Air Officers Commanding (AOCs) in Abuja.
According to Air Marshal Abubakar, the NAF successfully inducted 12 aircraft into its fleet over the past year, marking a significant achievement for the force. He highlighted the importance of this modernization, noting that it will enhance NAF’s capabilities and operational readiness in combating various national security threats.
“These are exciting times that demand innovative thinking, resilience, and dedication,” Abubakar said, calling on NAF personnel to maintain professionalism, integrity, and loyalty as they contribute to the force’s evolving mission.
He also commended the transformational leadership that has contributed to successful air operations, particularly counterinsurgency efforts in the North-West and anti-oil theft missions in the South-South regions. The CAS acknowledged the contributions of NAF officers and staff, whose dedication continues to drive the force's progress.
During the meeting, Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the need for continued focus on the effective application of airpower to meet national security objectives. He also noted that the forum provided an opportunity to review progress, recalibrate strategies, and strengthen their unity in achieving NAF’s goals.