Only the Best Selected to Defend Our Nation — CAS

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has affirmed that only the most capable candidates are chosen for the critical responsibility of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty. Speaking on Saturday at the Passing-Out Parade of 1,190 airmen and airwomen of the Basic Military Training Course 44/2023, held at the Military Training Center (MTC) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base in Kaduna, the CAS emphasized the importance of excellence, discipline, and resilience among the recruits.

Highlights of CAS’s Speech

Air Marshal Abubakar, the event’s Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, congratulated the new recruits and commended their dedication during the rigorous training.

• Transformative Training: He described the training as deliberately challenging, aimed at shaping the recruits into warriors, tradesmen, and leaders who embody courage, discipline, and resilience.
• Core Values: The recruits were reminded to uphold NAF’s core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence, emphasizing their role in maintaining NAF’s reputation.
• Civilian Respect: He urged them to respect and protect civilians, adhere to rules of engagement, and strictly follow social media guidelines to uphold the esteemed image of the NAF.

Role in National Security

The CAS highlighted the significant role the new airmen and airwomen will play in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges:

• Many of them will be deployed to operational theatres and internal security operations.
• He encouraged them to seize opportunities for continuous training and self-development to enhance their professional growth and operational capabilities.

Commitment to Service

Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the recruits’ duty to serve selflessly, noting their efforts on the field will contribute significantly to the nation’s security and prosperity.

He stated, “You are called to a life of selfless service. The efforts you make on the field will play a vital role in shaping the future of the Nigerian Air Force, strengthening the security of our nation, and ensuring its continued prosperity.”

Gratitude to Leadership and Partners

• Presidential Support: The CAS expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to addressing the operational, logistical, and welfare needs of the NAF, pledging the Air Force’s loyalty to the President’s agenda for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
• Community Collaboration: He also acknowledged the hospitality and support of the Governor and people of Kaduna State, as well as the cooperation of other security agencies, for creating a conducive environment for the training.

The ceremony marked a pivotal moment for the newly inducted airmen and airwomen, who now join the ranks of the Nigerian Air Force in its mission to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and contribute to its stability.