The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, says the success of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is deeply rooted in the professionalism, dedication and discipline within the personnel.
Abubakar said this at the opening of the 4th Quarter Conference with the Air Warrant Officers (AWOs) and Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs) of NAF Units, on Tuesday in Abuja.
“I must first express my gratitude to each of you for your unwavering commitment to duty and your pivotal role in maintaining the NAF’s operational excellence.
“Let me also specially appreciate your immense contributions during the successful hosting and celebration of the NAF’s Sixtieth Anniversary earlier in May this year.”
Abubakar said that AWOs and RSMs were the backbone of the service, the guardians of its customs and values, and the mentors of airmen and airwomen.
He said that the senior Non-Commissioned Officers played a critical role in supporting commanders to enforce service discipline and promote regimentation across NAF units.
“Our success as an Air Force is deeply rooted in the professionalism, dedication, and discipline you instill within the personnel.
“I encourage you to raise the tempo as we continue to transform the NAF for higher operational excellence,” he said.
The CAS said the conference was more than a review of the past year but also a strategic dialogue to consolidate on gains as well as critically examine any shortcomings and chart the course forward.
He said it was also an avenue to interact and get feedback from them on issues affecting the airmen/airwomen in the NAF.
According to him, the focus is to ensure that all stakeholders are well-informed and leadership is strengthened at every level in the NAF for operational success.
The CAS said that NAF had achieved several significant milestones in line with his Command Philosophy: “To transform the NAF into an agile and resilient force that effectively meets the airpower demands of national security in all operational environments”.
“It is therefore necessary to keep you abreast of our performance and notable accomplishments so you can effectively carry along the airmen/airwomen under you.
“Let me also reiterate that you AWOs/RSMs must be well acquainted with my Command Philosophy as you play a vital role in its accomplishment.
“As AWOs and RSMs, you are all potential mentors to your subordinates given your years of experience and knowledge about the Service,” he added. (NAN)
