By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has commissioned key infrastructural projects at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base, Kaduna, as part of efforts to prepare personnel for the operation of newly acquired modern aircraft platforms.
Air Marshal Aneke speaking during the commissioning ceremony described the projects as strategic investments aimed at equipping the next generation of pilots with the necessary environment for effective training and professional development.
He noted that the completion of the Student Pilots’ Quarters marks a significant step toward preparing pilots who will operate advanced aircraft capable of delivering smart and decisive airpower in ongoing counterterrorism and national security operations.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Chief explained that the commissioning reflects his command philosophy of enhancing and sustaining a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force. He emphasised that the initiative goes beyond physical infrastructure, stressing the broader objective of strengthening operational readiness and improving personnel welfare in synergy with surface forces.
Air Marshal Aneke expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his sustained support to national security. He highlighted the President’s bilateral engagements with the Government of the Republic of Türkiye, which have facilitated the acquisition of advanced helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for the Nigerian Air Force.
He further disclosed that strategic engagements in the United States, Italy, and Türkiye are accelerating the procurement of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters, and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters to enhance the Service’s operational effectiveness across the full spectrum of air operations.
The projects commissioned include six blocks of 12 one-bedroom Student Pilots’ Quarters, a block of six three-bedroom flats initiated by the Ministry of Defence and completed by the NAF, and a block of 30 one-bedroom studio apartments for airmen and airwomen of the Military Training Centre.
The CAS urged personnel to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism, calling for proper maintenance of the facilities to ensure their longevity.
He commended the former Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal HB Abubakar, for initiating the project, and lauded the Logistics Branch, the Air Officer Commanding, and contractors for the timely delivery of the projects. He also acknowledged the support of the Federal Government and the leadership of the National Assembly for enabling fiscal releases that made the developments possible.
In his welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshal EP Efanga, described the facilities as a major boost to operational readiness and personnel welfare. He commended the CAS for his leadership and unwavering support, noting that the new infrastructure will significantly enhance the training of pilots expected to operate the Nigerian Air Force’s advanced platforms and strengthen the Service’s overall operational capacity.
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