By Hosea Parah, Abuja

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, was presented with documents for 43.746 hectares of land allocated to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) by the Kaduna State Government. The handover ceremony took place at the NAF Headquarters and was attended by the Administrator of the Kaduna Capital Territory Authority (KCTA), Sam Aruwan, representing Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State.

Expressing his gratitude, the CAS thanked Governor Uba and the people of Kaduna State for their generosity, highlighting the longstanding relationship between the NAF and the state dating back to the 1960s. He emphasized that Kaduna State is regarded as the home of NAF’s premier base, making it the home for NAF personnel, regardless of their states of origin. The CAS assured that the allocated land would be utilized for the development of affordable post-service housing estates primarily benefiting NAF Senior Non-Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers.

Furthermore, the CAS underscored the NAF’s commitment to the well-being of its personnel, acknowledging that the operational successes of the force rely heavily on a highly motivated workforce. He emphasized that the NAF’s personnel are its most valuable resource, and without their dedication and motivation, even the most advanced weapon systems would be ineffective. The CAS emphasized that the plan to develop the allocated land aligns with his Command Philosophy of prioritizing welfare and infrastructure to maintain a highly motivated force.

The allocated 43.746 hectares of land represents the first of two approvals expected from the Kaduna State Government. The NAF is eagerly awaiting the second approval for an additional 44.894 hectares, pending completion of all necessary processes outlined by the KCTA.