By Bavoriat Clara
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has reaffirmed the pivotal role of air power in Nigeria’s ongoing security operations, describing it as central to recent successes recorded across various theatres.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the investiture ceremony for newly promoted Air Commodores and Air Vice Marshals at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters, Abuja, on 11 December 2025, the Minister said the elevation of senior officers reflects the nation’s confidence in their capacity to provide strategic leadership at a critical moment in Nigeria’s security landscape.
The event was announced in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
General Musa said the new ranks come with expanded responsibilities vital to safeguarding the country and advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration. He noted that promotion to the rank of Air Vice Marshal demands a deeper sense of discipline, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
He described the newly promoted officers as custodians of NAF’s traditions and values, stressing that their leadership decisions will shape the outcome of air operations and influence the future of the Service. “The expectations placed on you are high because your elevated position requires clear vision, steady judgement, and an enduring sense of purpose,” he said.
The Minister also underscored the decisive impact of air power on operational outcomes, commending NAF for its role in precision strikes, tactical mobility, and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions that have enhanced joint operations nationwide. He stressed that no military Service can operate effectively in isolation and called for deeper collaboration among the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, and other security agencies.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, congratulated the newly promoted officers, noting that military rank is earned through diligence, competence and character. He added that the ceremony took place at a time when Nigeria is grappling with complex security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and emerging cyber threats.
According to him, “Rank is not only worn on the shoulders; it is carried in the mind and in the character,” urging the officers to demonstrate exemplary leadership as they assume higher responsibilities.
Both the Minister and the CAS paid tribute to fallen heroes and personnel wounded in the line of duty, acknowledging their sacrifices as a reminder of the weight of responsibility borne by senior leaders. General Musa also praised the families of the officers for their resilience and support, noting that the Ministry of Defence remains committed to enhancing the capabilities of the Armed Forces through strategic direction, sustained training and institutional strengthening.
The Minister commended the CAS for his leadership in advancing the professionalism and operational focus of the Service and expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support to the Armed Forces.
The ceremony ended with well-wishes for the officers as they step into their expanded roles in service to the nation.
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