The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has reiterated the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) firm commitment to defending Nigeria’s airspace and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
According to Director of Public Relations and Information Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, speaking at the Second Quarter Route March in Abuja on June 4, 2025, the CAS declared that the protection of Nigerians is the NAF’s highest priority.
“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,” Air Marshal Abubakar stated. “Your protection is not just an obligation—it is our highest priority.”
Addressing insurgents, terrorists, and bandits, the CAS warned, “There will be no hiding place for those who threaten the peace and stability of Nigeria. We will find you and take you out.”
Air Marshal Abubakar expressed the NAF’s gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support, particularly in operational readiness and personnel welfare. He reaffirmed the Air Force’s loyalty to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Highlighting the importance of physical fitness in the NAF, Air Marshal Abubakar announced new policies tying Performance Evaluation Reports to physical fitness test certificates. No personnel will be considered for promotion without being medically and physically fit, he added. The CAS also revealed plans for the construction of modern sporting facilities at various NAF bases and the procurement of advanced gym equipment for 22 units.
Drawing parallels between the route march and national security efforts, Air Marshal Abubakar noted that the journey towards lasting peace is challenging but achievable through discipline and resilience.
“Let today’s route march remind us of who we are and what we stand for,” he said. “We are not just marching on roads; we are marching towards purpose, honour, and victory.”
The quarterly route march, held across all NAF units, aims to build endurance, foster camaraderie, and reinforce physical conditioning essential for modern military operations, while demonstrating the NAF’s unwavering resolve to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty.
