Air Force to mark 59th anniversary with new war jets

The Nigerian Air Forces has concluded plans to commemorate its 59 years of existence with the induction of two new platforms at the NAF Base, Emene in Enugu State.

The new platforms to be inducted are DA-62, Wing Loong II UAV and CW 40 UAV.

The Chairman Organizing Committee, Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Day celebration 2023, Air Commodore Chukwuedo Illoh made the disclosure while briefing newsmen in Abuja on activities lined up for the celebration.

According to him, the brief was organised to formally inform the general public about the forthcoming NAF 59th anniversary celebration themed “Doctrinal Imperative for Successful Nigerian Air Force Operations.“

Air Commodore Illoh said: “The NAF is relying on the media for timely and accurate reportage of every event marking the NAF Day 2023 Celebration.”

He urged the people of Enugu State not to panic due to the movement of war jets that would be taking part in the event.

He said: “There is no doubt that the Service has grown over the years into a formidable and respected force within the African continent and even beyond.”

He noted that pursuant to its mandate of securing the territorial integrity of the nation through the application of air power, the Service is also determined to ensure a peaceful and progressive country.

According to him, the NAF has also made appreciable progress and significant contributions in the areas of internal security, humanitarian and peace-keeping operations as well as restoration and sustenance of democracy on the African continent.

He noted that it is only rational, therefore, to celebrate its existence as well as the laudable achievements recorded over the year.

He added: “The NAF is a highly technical Service with the fundamental mission of ‘ensuring the integrity of the airspace by gaining and maintaining control of the air while retaining a credible capacity to fulfil other air power tasks demanded by the national defence and security imperatives’.

“To this end, this year’s Theme is aimed at emphasizing and promoting air-mindedness among NAF personnel and ensuring a common frame of reference on the most effective approach to air power employment especially in joint military operations at this critical stage in our Nation’s history.

“Accordingly, to mark this year’s NAF day celebration, a series of activities have been lined up to enlighten the citizens of NAF efforts in the fight against insurgency, terrorism and other forms of criminality within the Country.”

He noted that there will be a series of pre-event activities taking place simultaneously at NAF units across the country.

“These activities include Juma’at prayers and Interdenominational Church Service. The Juma’at prayers will take place today, 28 April 2023 while the Inter-denominational Church service takes place on Sunday, 30 April 2023 respectively.

“There will also be medical outreach to host communities across the country on 2 May 2023.

“Furthermore, the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) will also embark on humanitarian support activities to some selected communities in the country on 4 May 2023.

“All these are geared towards winning the consent and support as well as appreciating Nigerians for their support and goodwill over the years.”

“There will also be a mini Golf Kitty, which will take place in Enugu on Thursday, 4 May 2023.

According to him, for the first time, this year’s anniversary will also feature a Doctrine Penetration Competition among the 6 Commands of the NAF including Headquarters NAF.

This is scheduled to be held on Thursday, 4 May 2023 in addition to the Pulling out Parade of senior officers who recently retired from the Service after many years of meritorious service to our dear Country.

According to him, there will also be Gala Night. These events will take place on Friday, May 5 2023.

“The activities marking the NAF Day Celebration are expected to end on Saturday, 6 May 2023 with a ceremonial parade, aerial display and induction of new platforms into the NAF Order of Battle.

“The new platforms to be inducted are DA-62, Wing Loong II UAV and CW 40 UAV. Other events lined up to round off the celebration are exhibitions and photo gallery displays.

“The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to be the Special Guest of Honour at the occasion. He added.

He expressed his gratitude of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao for your usual support towards projecting a favourable image of the NAF.