The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has once again restated its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s airspace and collaborating with sister security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property across the country. This assurance was given by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, during the Second Quarter Route March held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Addressing personnel during the fitness exercise, Air Marshal Abubakar declared with firm resolve that the NAF would not relent in its duty of national defence. “We will continue to defend every inch of our nation’s airspace and stand firm in joint operations to protect lives and property across the country,” he stated. “Rest assured, your protection is not just an obligation—it is our highest priority.”
Speaking with the clarity of purpose that has become a hallmark of his leadership, the Air Chief issued a strong warning to all adversaries of the Nigerian state, including terrorists, insurgents, and bandits wreaking havoc in different regions. “To the enemies of our nation, know this: there will be no hiding place for those who threaten the peace and stability of Nigeria. We are coming for you. We will find you and take you out,” he warned, signalling a renewed offensive posture against threats to national security.
The quarterly route march, which is conducted simultaneously across all NAF commands, is more than a ceremonial tradition. It is an essential exercise aimed at sharpening the physical and mental readiness of personnel for the demands of modern military operations. Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized that physical fitness is no longer a luxury or optional attribute within the Force. “Physical fitness is no longer a matter of choice—it is a non-negotiable requirement,” he said.
He encouraged airmen and officers to maintain discipline and resilience, reiterating that sustained physical training not only builds strength and endurance but also strengthens esprit de corps among personnel. “Those who persevere, who stay the course with discipline, focus, and resilience, will ultimately arrive at the destination. And that destination, ladies and gentlemen, is the place of victory,” the CAS affirmed.
Under Air Marshal Abubakar’s leadership, the Nigerian Air Force has intensified its role in various joint security operations nationwide, deploying precision airpower to support ground forces and eliminate hostile threats. The Force has also continued its internal capacity development through rigorous training, welfare reforms, and technological modernization—all aimed at enhancing operational efficiency.
As Nigeria continues to navigate complex security challenges, the NAF’s message is clear: it remains combat-ready, physically and mentally fit, and committed to its constitutional duty of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and securing its people.
