The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to prepare its personnel for the operation of incoming modern aircraft, as the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on Friday commissioned key infrastructural projects at NAF Base Kaduna.
Speaking during the ceremony, the CAS said the projects are crucial to building a new generation of pilots capable of operating advanced air platforms. He noted that the completion of the Student Pilots’ Quarters marks a significant step toward strengthening the Service’s operational capacity and enhancing the projection of decisive airpower in ongoing counter-terrorism and national security operations.
“In this regard, the completion of the Student Pilots’ Quarters is a major step in preparing pilots who will operate modern advanced aircraft, enabling the projection of smart and decisive airpower to eliminate terrorist threats while safeguarding our people,” he said.
Air Marshal Aneke emphasised that the commissioning was not merely about infrastructure but about delivering on his command philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of working in synergy with ground forces to achieve national security objectives.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his commitment to strengthening national security. According to him, the President’s bilateral engagements with strategic partners, including the Government of Türkiye, have facilitated the acquisition of advanced helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for the Nigerian Air Force.
Highlighting the Service’s transformation drive, the CAS disclosed that engagements in the United States, Italy and Türkiye are yielding tangible results. He revealed that the Air Force is fast-tracking the procurement of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters to enhance operational effectiveness across the full spectrum of air operations.
The commissioned projects include six blocks of 12 one-bedroom Student Pilots’ Quarters, a block of six three-bedroom flats initiated by the Ministry of Defence and completed by the NAF, as well as a block of 30 one-bedroom studio apartments for airmen and airwomen of the Military Training Centre.
The CAS urged personnel to maintain discipline, professionalism and a strong culture of maintenance. He also commended the former Chief of the Air Staff, Hassan Bala Abubakar, for initiating the project, while appreciating the Logistics Branch, the Air Officer Commanding, and contractors for timely delivery. He further acknowledged the support of the Federal Government and the National Assembly in enabling the projects through budgetary releases.
Reaffirming the Service’s commitment to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Air Marshal Aneke pledged that the Nigerian Air Force would remain a critical stakeholder in ensuring a safe, secure and prosperous Nigeria.
In his welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, E. P. Efanga, commended the leadership of the CAS and the dedication of personnel and contractors involved in completing the projects. He described the facilities as a milestone in strengthening operational readiness and improving personnel welfare.
“These facilities will play a key role in preparing our pilots to operate the advanced platforms that will shape the future of the Nigerian Air Force,” he said, expressing gratitude to the CAS for his continued support to the Command.
