To boost morale, ensure discipline, and uphold vital military traditions, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, presented new pickup vehicles to 9 Air Warrant Officers (AWOs) earlier today, 11 June 2024. The brief, yet vibrant ceremony took place at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base, Asokoro, Abuja. 

In his remarks, the CAS emphasized the importance of human resources as the most critical asset in any organization, stating that the welfare and motivation of personnel are critical factors in ensuring that the NAF meets its goals and aspirations. According to him, “AWOs are a selected breed of distinguished Senior Non Commissioned Officers on whom the Service places the onerous task of maintaining regimentation and discipline as well as upholding military ethics and traditions among airmen/airwomen across the NAF.” 

The selfless service and exemplary lifestyle of these distinguished gentlemen, he continued, who also serve as mentors to their subordinates remain quintessential to the efficiency and effectiveness of the Service. He then stated that it was in recognition of this gallant service that the NAF was honouring the AWOs who have been very instrumental to the successes of the NAF as a Service. Air Marshal Abubakar also urged the AWOs to continue communicating the needs of their subordinates to superior authorities to inform impactful policy decisions. 

In appreciation, the most senior recipient, AWO Menone Perefhibo, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the CAS, on behalf of the other beneficiaries, while noting that the presentation of the vehicles was a testament to the CAS’ commitment to enhancing welfare of personnel. 

AWO Perefhibo also added that the CAS’s leadership and command philosophy have created a conducive environment for them to thrive, and they were grateful for his unwavering support.

Air Marshal Abubakar also commissioned a garden and park at NAF Base, Asokoro as well as a Sewage Treatment Plant installed across the Estate. The plant, which consists of 6 sewage treatment plants and 6 lift stations, was executed to provide NAF personnel and their families with clean and healthy living environment, aligning with the CAS’s focus on welfare and infrastructural renewal. 

Speaking at the commissioning, the CAS thanked the NAF Investment Limited Group of Companies, NAF Housing and Construction Company, and other project partners for their efforts in delivering the facility. He also appealed to residents to handle the system responsibly and report any suspicious activities to ensure the sustainability of the infrastructure. 

These events underscore the CAS’ commitment to enhancing the welfare and operational effectiveness of NAF personnel through targeted investments in both human and physical capital. The event was attended by Branch Chiefs, Directors, and other senior officers from HQ NAF, as well as the Managing Director of BIOTECH, Mr Aena Talabi, and other BIOTECH staff members.

Edward Gabkwet 

Air Vice Marshal 

Director of Public Relations and Information 

Nigerian Air Force