The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reinforced its commitment to advancing women empowerment, gender inclusion and sustainable national development through a strategic partnership with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a courtesy visit by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, to the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.
Speaking during the visit, the CAS stressed the critical role women play in nation-building, peacebuilding and socio-economic development. He said the engagement was aimed at deepening collaboration to support women and vulnerable groups across the country through impactful civil-military initiatives.
Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed the NAF’s dedication to expanding opportunities for women in leadership, education, entrepreneurship and skills development. He added that closer collaboration with the Ministry would enhance targeted interventions for women in conflict-affected communities, strengthen advocacy against gender-based violence and foster more resilient communities.
In her response, the Minister of Women Affairs commended the Nigerian Air Force for its sustained contributions to national security, peace and community development. She also praised the people-centred leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff and welcomed the proposed partnership.
Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim assured the Ministry’s readiness to work closely with the NAF on programmes designed to empower women, protect vulnerable groups and promote gender-responsive development.
Both institutions pledged to develop impactful initiatives that will promote social inclusion, strengthen community resilience and contribute to Nigeria’s sustainable national development.
