By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Nigerian Air Force (NAF), has commenced a three-day operational visit to the Logistics Command, Lagos, from 2 February 2026, aimed at assessing the operational readiness of personnel, equipment and critical infrastructure supporting ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations across the country.
The visit highlights the central role of logistics in modern air warfare, where sustained airpower projection relies heavily on an efficient supply chain, effective maintenance systems and a highly motivated workforce.
The CAS emphasised that operational success is directly tied to logistics strength, noting that the tempo, reach and sustainability of NAF air operations nationwide are underpinned by a robust logistics architecture.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS, as part of the visit, paid a courtesy call on the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. During the visit, the CAS reaffirmed the enduring strategic partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and the Lagos State Government, describing Lagos as pivotal to the operational framework of the Service.
He noted that Lagos hosts the Logistics Command and several key NAF establishments that sustain air operations nationwide, stating that the efficiency of NAF missions is closely linked to the stability, cooperation and support enjoyed within the state. The CAS commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, particularly his administration’s investments in infrastructure and security, stressing that a secure Lagos is critical to Nigeria’s economic stability and national development.
In his response, Governor Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sustaining strong cooperation with the Armed Forces and other security agencies. He described security as fundamental to Lagos State’s economic growth and social stability, assuring that the state would continue to work closely with the Nigerian Air Force to safeguard lives, property and the strategic importance of Lagos to the nation.
The CAS also acknowledged the effective synergy between the Nigerian Air Force and Lagos State in joint security operations, particularly under Operation MESA, where air surveillance and intelligence capabilities complement the efforts of sister services and security agencies, thereby strengthening the state’s overall security architecture.
During the commissioning of newly completed infrastructure projects at 055 NAF Camp, Legico Barracks, the CAS reaffirmed that personnel welfare remains a strategic pillar of operational readiness. He stressed that the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to welfare is deliberate and unwavering, noting that a motivated and well-catered workforce forms the foundation of mission success.
He added that the growing logistics demands of counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations necessitate sustained investment in infrastructure that directly enhances morale, efficiency and professionalism.
The commissioned projects include two blocks of 24 two-bedroom flats, a block of 40 one-bedroom flats and a purpose-built sports complex designed to promote physical fitness and overall wellbeing.
The CAS described the facilities as a significant upgrade from traditional barracks standards, noting that Legico Barracks, located in a prime residential area of Lagos State, now ranks among the most dignified residential environments for Service personnel nationwide. He explained that adequate housing reduces welfare pressures, stabilises the home front and enables personnel to focus fully on operational duties.
The CAS also commended his predecessor, Air Marshal H.B. Abubakar (Rtd), for initiating the project, and urged beneficiaries to uphold discipline, professionalism and a strong sense of ownership in maintaining the facilities.
Expressing gratitude to the Federal Government and the National Assembly for their continued fiscal support, the CAS thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering backing of the Nigerian Air Force. He further charged officers, airmen and airwomen to remain disciplined ambassadors of the Service and to foster harmonious relationships with host communities and sister security agencies.
He concluded that the operational visit reflects a deliberate integration of logistics readiness, personnel welfare and intergovernmental cooperation as a unified force multiplier, reaffirming the Nigerian Air Force’s resolve to remain agile, resilient and fully mission-ready in the defence of national security.
admin