The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has vowed that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will leave no hiding place for anyone threatening the peace and stability of Nigeria.
Abubakar delivered this message on Wednesday in Abuja during the Second Quarter Route March of the NAF.
He reaffirmed the Air Force’s unwavering commitment to defending Nigeria’s airspace and safeguarding lives and property nationwide. He stressed that protecting all Nigerians remains the NAF’s highest priority urging officers airmen, and airwomen to recognize that protecting the nation is not merely a duty but the foremost priority of the Air Force.
“We will continue to defend every inch of our nation’s airspace and stand firm in joint operations to protect lives and property across the country,” he declared. “To the enemies of our nation, hear this clearly: we will not give you a hiding place. If you threaten Nigeria’s peace and stability, we will find you and take you out.”
The CAS expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast support of the Armed Forces. He acknowledged the president’s investments in operational capabilities and personnel welfare, and pledged the NAF’s loyalty in return. Highlighting the importance of fitness in military readiness, Abubakar announced new policies to strengthen performance standards.
“Physical fitness is now a mandatory requirement for promotion,” he said. “I have directed that all Performance Evaluation Reports must include a Physical Fitness Test Certificate. No personnel will be eligible for promotion without meeting medical and physical fitness standards.”
Drawing a parallel between the route march and the broader mission of national security, Abubakar described the journey toward peace as challenging but rewarding.
“Those who endure with discipline, focus, and resilience will reach the place of victory,” he said. “Let today’s route march remind us of who we are and what we stand for. Let it reignite our fighting spirit and strengthen our shared commitment to defending Nigeria.
“We are not just marching on roads; we are marching toward purpose, honour, and victory,” he concluded.
(NAN)
