In a vibrant ceremony at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base in Asokoro, Abuja, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, took significant steps to boost morale and uphold military traditions by presenting new pickup vehicles to nine distinguished Air Warrant Officers (AWOs).
During his remarks, Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the importance of human resources as the most critical asset in any organization.
“The welfare and motivation of personnel are critical factors in ensuring that the NAF meets its goals and aspirations,” he stated.
Emphasizing the unique role of AWOs, he noted, “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/airwomen across the NAF.”
The CAS praised the selfless service and exemplary lifestyle of these officers, who serve as mentors to their subordinates. He acknowledged their significant contribution to the successes of the NAF, describing the vehicle presentation as a recognition of their gallant service.
AWO Menone Perefhibo, the most senior recipient, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of his colleagues, highlighting the CAS’s commitment to personnel welfare.
“The presentation of these vehicles is a testament to your dedication to our welfare,” he said. Perefhibo also commended the CAS’s leadership and command philosophy for creating a conducive environment for them to thrive.
In addition to the vehicle presentation, Air Marshal Abubakar also commissioned a new garden and park at the NAF Base, Asokoro, and a Sewage Treatment Plant across the Estate. The plant, comprising six sewage treatment plants and six lift stations, aims to provide a clean and healthy living environment for NAF personnel and their families. This project aligns with the CAS’s focus on welfare and infrastructural renewal.
Speaking at the commissioning, the CAS thanked the NAF Investment Limited Group of Companies, NAF Housing and Construction Company, and other project partners for their efforts. He urged residents to handle the system responsibly and report any suspicious activities to ensure the infrastructure’s sustainability.
These initiatives demonstrate Air Marshal Abubakar’s dedication to enhancing the welfare and operational effectiveness of NAF personnel through targeted investments in both human and physical capital. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including 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.
The CAS’s actions today not only honor the dedication and service of the AWOs but also reinforce the NAF’s commitment to maintaining high standards of discipline, welfare, and operational readiness.