In a significant move 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 nine Air Warrant Officers (AWOs). The brief yet vibrant ceremony took place at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base in Asokoro, Abuja.
In his address, Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the critical importance of human resources, emphasizing that the welfare and motivation of personnel are essential to achieving the NAF’s goals and aspirations. “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 and airwomen across the NAF,” he stated.
The CAS commended the selfless service and exemplary lifestyle of these distinguished gentlemen, noting their role as mentors to their subordinates is quintessential to the efficiency and effectiveness of the Service. He added that the presentation of the vehicles was a recognition of their gallant service and instrumental contributions to the successes of the NAF. Air Marshal Abubakar also urged the AWOs to continue communicating the needs of their subordinates to superior authorities to inform impactful policy decisions.
In a heartfelt response, AWO Menone Perefhibo, the most senior recipient, expressed gratitude on behalf of the other beneficiaries. He acknowledged that the presentation of the vehicles was a testament to the CAS’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of personnel. AWO Perefhibo praised the CAS’s leadership and command philosophy, which has created a conducive environment for the AWOs to thrive, and thanked him for his unwavering support.
Additionally, Air Marshal Abubakar commissioned a garden and park at NAF Base, Asokoro, along with a newly installed Sewage Treatment Plant across the Estate. The plant, comprising six sewage treatment plants and six lift stations, was executed to provide NAF personnel and their families with a clean and healthy living environment. This aligns with the CAS’s focus on welfare and infrastructural renewal. During the commissioning, the CAS expressed gratitude to 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 urged residents to handle the system responsibly and report any suspicious activities to ensure the sustainability of the infrastructure.
These initiatives underscore the CAS’s 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
11 June 2024
