By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has once again underscored its dedication to the welfare, morale, and operational effectiveness of its personnel, while urging frontline troops to remain vigilant, united, and resolute in safeguarding civilians against bandits and insurgents.
This charge was delivered on 3 September 2025 during the commissioning of worship centres and other welfare projects at the 4135 Force Protection Wing in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State. The facilities, which include a Christian chapel, a mosque, a Mini-Mart, and a Quarter Guard Stand, were executed in line with the command philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, which places personnel welfare at the heart of operational success.
Representing the CAS, the Air Officer Commanding Air Training Command (AOC ATC), Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Yusuf Dari, commended the troops for their professionalism, courage, and sacrifices in the fight against criminal elements. He noted that their resilience has not only restored relative calm to communities once plagued by banditry but has also weakened the networks of those seeking to destabilise the region.
AVM Dari urged the personnel to continue standing firm, stressing that their mission goes beyond combat—it is about protecting civilians, earning the trust of local communities, and ensuring lasting peace. “The communities we safeguard are safer today because of your sacrifices,” he said. “But you must remain watchful, support one another, and never lose sight of the fact that our ultimate duty is to shield civilians from harm.”
He further reminded them that unity, discipline, and respect for civilian populations are essential enablers of success in operations. The AOC assured the troops of the unflinching support of the CAS, pointing out that the newly commissioned projects are a clear demonstration of the NAF’s commitment to balancing combat readiness with the welfare, resilience, and spiritual needs of its personnel.
By combining operational focus with tangible welfare initiatives, the NAF continues to strengthen its effectiveness on the battlefield while deepening its bond with the communities it protects.
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