The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially commenced its 61st anniversary celebration, a landmark event that would also feature the Fourth African Air Forces Forum.

The announcement was made during a press briefing addressed by Chairman of the Anniversary Organising Committee, Air Commodore Sylvester Asuquo Eyoma, at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja.

Eyoma outlined the significant strides the NAF has made in its 61 years of existence, emphasising its transformation in manpower, operations, and technological capacity.

He noted that these improvements have greatly enhanced the force’s ability to fulfil its constitutional mandate, particularly in tackling insurgency, terrorism, and other security threats through precision airstrikes and coordinated operations.

The theme of this year’s anniversary, “Optimising Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations,” according to him, underscores the importance of public cooperation in achieving operational success.

A wide array of activities has been scheduled as part of the celebration, beginning with a literary competition for students, Open Day visits and career talks across NAF bases, and a golf tournament at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Golf Club in Abuja, he added.

Other highlights include the commissioning of Quick Impact Projects, such as a newly constructed clinic in Rukubi, Nasarawa State, and a gesture of reconciliation following a tragic incident in January 2023.

Over 30 Air Forces, 12 air chiefs, and 45 exhibitors, including Airbus, Embraer, HAVELSAN, Jet Aviation, and Nigeria’s Defence Industries Corporation, are expected at the programme.