The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Monday, 6 October 2025, achieved another significant milestone in its modernization drive with the commissioning of its new Headquarters Annex Complex in Gudu, Abuja.

The newly completed facility, designed to ease congestion at the overstretched NAF Headquarters in Garki, was hailed as a strategic step toward enhancing institutional efficiency, improving personnel welfare, and boosting overall operational effectiveness. Beyond its administrative purpose, the project also strengthens the Air Force’s capability to project airpower in defence of the nation and protection of its citizens.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, mni, who served as Special Guest of Honour, praised the NAF leadership for its vision, innovation, and resilience. He noted that the initiative reflects the Service’s sustained commitment to growth and professional excellence.

Dr. Badaru observed that since its establishment in 1964, the Nigerian Air Force has grown exponentially in size and responsibility, making the creation of new administrative and operational structures both necessary and timely. He further explained that relocating key branches including the Air Secretary, Standards and Evaluation, Transformation and Innovation, as well as the 051 Personnel Management Group and an Annex of the Chief of the Air Staff’s Office will not only decongest the Headquarters but also reinforce its administrative framework for future expansion.

“This new Annex reflects the Air Force’s enduring culture of excellence and foresight,” the Minister remarked, commending the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, for aligning the project with his command philosophy of maintaining a motivated and efficient force through improved welfare and infrastructure renewal.

In his address, Air Marshal Abubakar explained that the Gudu Annex was deliberately acquired and remodeled to provide a more conducive working environment and enhance inter-departmental coordination. He emphasized that the project underscores the NAF’s commitment to operational excellence and personnel welfare, noting that “motivation flourishes where efficiency and infrastructure are prioritized.”

“The commissioning of the Headquarters Annex is a testament to our dynamism, resilience, and forward-looking posture as a modern Air Force,” the Air Chief stated.

Both the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the Air Staff expressed gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support, strategic direction, and commitment to security sector reform, which made the project possible.

Following his remarks, the Minister of Defence formally commissioned the Headquarters NAF Annex Complex in Gudu, dedicating it to the glory of God and the service of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sani, described the commissioning as more than just the unveiling of a new structure, calling it a landmark achievement in NAF’s continuous transformation and institutional development.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Acting Chairman, Senate Committee on Air Force, Senator Augustine Akobundu; Chairman, House Committee on Air Force, Honourable Kabiru Al-Hassan Rurum; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Service Chiefs, and other senior military officers.