The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on 19th of June 2023 appointed Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar as the 22nd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
Upon assuming office on the 22nd of June 2023, Air Marshal HB Abubakar immediately introduced a new blueprint and leadership direction for the NAF. In recognition of the weight of his mandate, the CAS brought to bear his wealth of experience, knowledge and expertise to shape a new leadership guidance, anchored on effective command and control mechanism to drive in initiatives and foresights in order to attain strategic goals.
The CAS subsequently undertook a comprehensive assessment of the NAF, analyzing past achievements, current challenges, and future prospects. Informing his decision to overhaul all aspects of the NAF, particularly areas such as administration, operations, training, and logistics, in order to eliminate inherent systemic gaps, while streamlining operations and realigning with dynamic demands of modern warfare.
The strategic leadership style became imperative given the NAF’s central role in countering diverse security challenges occasioned by acts of terrorism, banditry, militancy, and other forms of criminality. According to Air Marshal Abubakar, restructuring was intended to reposition and re-strategize the NAF to effectively adapt to the dynamic and complex nature of modern operational environments. He emphasized that maximizing jointness and operational synergy whether in combined or independent operations is critical for a successful mission.
The comprehensive overhaul of the Service’s operations laid the foundation for Air Marshal HB Abubakar’s command philosophy which is christened, “To transform the Nigerian Air Force into an agile and resilient force that effectively meets the airpower demands of national security in all operational environments.” The command philosophy mirrors Jeff Davis’s postulation that transformational leadership is a leadership style which foster professionalism, innovation and commitment to inspire others to achieve their full potential while fulfilling organizational goals. He further affirms that transformational leadership is practical and effective approach in driving excellence within an institution.
Worthy to admit that Air Marshal HB Abubakar’s command philosophy centres on transformation which is moving beyond outdated methods, techniques, and objectives to embrace innovative concepts aligning with the NAF’s mission: “To ensure the integrity of the airspace by gaining and maintaining control of the air while retaining a credible capacity to fulfill other airpower tasks demanded by national defence and security imperatives.”
Pertinently, the CAS possesses the right leadership vision, charisma, and determination needed to elevate the NAF to new heights. His integration of transformational leadership principles across all aspects of the NAF underscores his commitment to maximizing the capabilities of personnel in order to enhance the force’s operational performance.
As a seasoned military leader, Air Marshal HB Abubakar brings more than three decades of expertise to foster a more mission oriented and mission ready Air Force . So far, his leadership style has demonstrated a strong sense of purposeful and strategic focus, enabling the NAF to evolve into a regional model in the effective deployment of air power. In the light of these developments, this article seeks to highlight key milestones in Air Marshal HB Abubakar’s journey to transform the NAF into an agile and resilient force.
It is two years down the lane, since Air Marshal HB Abubakar took-over the mantle of leadership as the 22nd Chief of the Air Staff. Thus, the scorecard takes a critical evaluation of the transformational leadership approach of Air Marshal HB Abubakar, with specific focus on the five key enablers of his command philosophy. These enablers include: optimizing force structure and establishment for enhanced operational effectiveness; deliberate training and mission-oriented force development; proactive logistics support and a strong maintenance culture; prioritizing research and development leveraging cutting-edge technology, strategic partnerships and lessons learnt; and maintaining a highly motivated force by enhancing welfare and infrastructural renewal.
These enablers are evident in the numerous achievements recorded under the transformational leadership of Air Marshal HB Abubakar, aimed at strengthening the NAF’s capabilities to address current and emerging security challenges. Being a seasoned strategic leader and executor, Air Marshal HB Abubakar’s impact is already evident across the five strategic pillars of his command philosophy, which some of these notable achievements are enumerated as follows:
Optimizing Force Structure and Enhancing Operational Effectiveness
Under his watch, the NAF expanded its airpower capabilities with the acquisition and induction of several key platforms: 2 King Air 360i light transport aircraft, 6 T-129 ATAK helicopters, 2 AgustaWestland 109 Trekker helicopters, 4 Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, and many others. Further acquisitions between 2025 and 2026 will include: 24 M-346 Fighter Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper Helicopters, 9 AgustaWestland 109 Trekker Helicopters, and additional CASA 295 transport aircraft.
Establishment of the Transformation and Innovation Branch was created to drive technological adaptation and maintain Nigeria’s aerial dominance, while the Civil-Military Relations Branch strengthens public trust through medical outreaches and humanitarian efforts across communities. Also the Directorate of Land Administration, Airworthiness and Certification, and Peace Support Operations, reflects a strategic shift toward specialized oversight of personnel deployment, airworthiness, and multinational missions. The establishment of Base Defence Coordination Centres further enhances intelligence integration and rapid response capability at all NAF bases
Deliberate Training and Mission-Oriented Force Development.
In just 24 months, over more than 217 pilots and 237 officers have been trained at home and abroad. Additionally, more than 3,200 engineers and technicians have graduated from the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), significantly boosting technical proficiency. The NAF’s training institutions have also updated their curricula to reflect new technologies and modern warfare tactics. These efforts, including sustained recruitment, are building a mission-ready force prepared to face today’s and tomorrow’s security challenges.
Proactive Logistics and Maintenance Culture
Air Marshal Abubakar has championed a culture of self-reliance in aircraft maintenance. NAF engineers successfully restored and maintained multiple aircraft, including: C-130H (NAF 918), Super Tucano (NAF 850) and DO-228 aircraft.
By sourcing aircraft spares locally and prioritizing in-house technical expertise, the NAF has improved aircraft serviceability while reducing reliance on external contractors yielding cost savings and enhanced readiness.
Research, Development, and Technological Advancement
The Abubakar’s led NAF places premium on Research and Development (R&D), empowering its units to compete and innovate independently. The installation of Martin-Baker ejection seats in Alpha jets and ongoing UAV development projects are clear evidence of this technological shift. Hosting the 3rd and 4th African Air Forces Forums in Abuja and Lagos respectively, the NAF welcomed over 20 African Air Chiefs and international aerospace leaders. These forums centered on aerospace innovation and regional security, cemented Nigeria’s leadership in regional air power strategy. Further consolidating Nigeria’s regional role, Air Marshal Abubakar was recently elected Chairman of the Association of African Air Forces (AAAF). His agenda includes fostering Africa-led humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and enhanced multinational air operations.
Welfare and Infrastructure Renewal
Welfare is a cornerstone of the CAS’s vision. From the launch of the Group Personnel Accident Insurance Policy to the NAF Microfinance Bank, efforts have been made to support financial and health security for personnel. Infrastructure upgrades have also been widespread. Office complexes and living quarters have been built and renovated across all NAF Bases. The Post-Service Housing Scheme has been expanded, ensuring personnel can retire into comfortable homes nationwide. Significant renovations in NAF schools and hospitals further demonstrate the CAS’s commitment to holistic personnel welfare. Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar’s leadership is transforming the Nigerian Air Force into a modern, mission-driven professional fighting force. By investing in the workforce, platforms and strategic partnerships, the CAS is building a resilient force that is ever prepared to counter complex threats at home and across the continent. With visionary leadership, strategic foresight, and an unrelenting drive for excellence, Air Marshal Abubakar is not just leading and redefining the NAF to meet the dreams and aspirations of its founding fathers.
As we celebrate the second anniversary of the 22nd Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, it is germane to add that his leadership style has been marked by a strong focus on enhancing operations, training, logistics, infrastructure, and personnel welfare. These efforts are testament of his unwavering commitment to transforming the capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to effectively project air power in response to defence and security of the country.
Under the transformational leadership of Air Marshal Abubakar, the NAF has continue to soar to greater heights. We celebrate Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar for leading with precision, excellence and innovation, while fostering strategic approach to partnerships towards navigating the evolving challenges and opportunities within the aviation, defence, and security landscape of our nation. No doubt, the NAF is being transformed into a new era. command philosophy. These enablers include: optimizing force structure and establishment for enhanced operational effectiveness; deliberate training and mission-oriented force development; proactive logistics support and a strong maintenance culture; prioritizing research and development leveraging cutting-edge technology, strategic partnerships and lessons learnt; and maintaining a highly motivated force by enhancing welfare and infrastructural renewal.
These enablers are evident in the numerous achievements recorded under the transformational leadership of Air Marshal HB Abubakar, aimed at strengthening the NAF’s capabilities to address current and emerging security challenges. Being a seasoned strategic leader and executor, Air Marshal HB Abubakar’s impact is already evident across the five strategic pillars of his command philosophy, which some of these notable achievements are enumerated as follows:
Optimizing Force Structure and Enhancing Operational Effectiveness
Under his watch, the NAF expanded its airpower capabilities with the acquisition and induction of several key platforms: 2 King Air 360i light transport aircraft, 6 T-129 ATAK helicopters, 2 AgustaWestland 109 Trekker helicopters, 4 Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, and many others. Further acquisitions between 2025 and 2026 will include: 24 M-346 Fighter Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper Helicopters, 9 AgustaWestland 109 Trekker Helicopters, and additional CASA 295 transport aircraft.
Establishment of the Transformation and Innovation Branch was created to drive technological adaptation and maintain Nigeria’s aerial dominance, while the Civil-Military Relations Branch strengthens public trust through medical outreaches and humanitarian efforts across communities. Also the Directorate of Land Administration, Airworthiness and Certification, and Peace Support Operations, reflects a strategic shift toward specialized oversight of personnel deployment, airworthiness, and multinational missions. The establishment of Base Defence Coordination Centres further enhances intelligence integration and rapid response capability at all NAF bases.
Deliberate Training and Mission-Oriented Force Development
In just 24 months, over more than 217 pilots and 237 officers have been trained at home and abroad. Additionally, more than 3,200 engineers and technicians have graduated from the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), significantly boosting technical proficiency. The NAF’s training institutions have also updated their curricula to reflect new technologies and modern warfare tactics. These efforts, including sustained recruitment, are building a mission-ready force prepared to face today’s and tomorrow’s security challenges.
Proactive Logistics and Maintenance Culture
Air Marshal Abubakar has championed a culture of self-reliance in aircraft maintenance. NAF engineers successfully restored and maintained multiple aircraft, including: C-130H (NAF 918), Super Tucano (NAF 850) and DO-228 aircraft.
By sourcing aircraft spares locally and prioritizing in-house technical expertise, the NAF has improved aircraft serviceability while reducing reliance on external contractors yielding cost savings and enhanced readiness.
Research, Development, and Technological Advancement
The Abubakar’s led NAF places premium on Research and Development (R&D), empowering its units to compete and innovate independently. The installation of Martin-Baker ejection seats in Alpha jets and ongoing UAV development projects are clear evidence of this technological shift. Hosting the 3rd and 4th African Air Forces Forums in Abuja and Lagos respectively, the NAF welcomed over 20 African Air Chiefs and international aerospace leaders. These forums centered on aerospace innovation and regional security, cemented Nigeria’s leadership in regional air power strategy. Further consolidating Nigeria’s regional role, Air Marshal Abubakar was recently elected Chairman of the Association of African Air Forces (AAAF). His agenda includes fostering Africa-led humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and enhanced multinational air operations.
Welfare and Infrastructure Renewal
Welfare is a cornerstone of the CAS’s vision. From the launch of the Group Personnel Accident Insurance Policy to the NAF Microfinance Bank, efforts have been made to support financial and health security for personnel. Infrastructure upgrades have also been widespread. Office complexes and living quarters have been built and renovated across all NAF Bases. The Post-Service Housing Scheme has been expanded, ensuring personnel can retire into comfortable homes nationwide. Significant renovations in NAF schools and hospitals further demonstrate the CAS’s commitment to holistic personnel welfare. Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar’s leadership is transforming the Nigerian Air Force into a modern, mission-driven professional fighting force. By investing in the workforce, platforms and strategic partnerships, the CAS is building a resilient force that is ever prepared to counter complex threats at home and across the continent. With visionary leadership, strategic foresight, and an unrelenting drive for excellence, Air Marshal Abubakar is not just leading and redefining the NAF to meet the dreams and aspirations of its founding fathers.
As we celebrate the second anniversary of the 22nd Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, it is germane to add that his leadership style has been marked by a strong focus on enhancing operations, training, logistics, infrastructure, and personnel welfare. These efforts are testament of his unwavering commitment to transforming the capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to effectively project air power in response to defence and security of the country.
Under the transformational leadership of Air Marshal Abubakar, the NAF has continue to soar to greater heights. We celebrate Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar for leading with precision, excellence and innovation, while fostering strategic approach to partnerships towards navigating the evolving challenges and opportunities within the aviation, defence, and security landscape of our nation. No doubt, the NAF is being transformed into a new era.
Written By: Michael. A, a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and a Public Relations practitioner.