The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has declared that those endangering Nigeria’s peace and security will have nowhere to hide.
Abubakar issued this warning during the Second Quarter Route March of the Nigerian Air Force held on Wednesday in Abuja.
Reaffirming the NAF’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s airspace, he emphasized the force’s foremost responsibility of protecting lives and property nationwide.
He urged officers, airmen, and airwomen to keep in mind that protection is not just a duty, but the top priority of the NAF.
“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.
“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.
The Air Chief also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his consistent backing of the Armed Forces, particularly in boosting operational capacity and personnel welfare.
He reiterated the NAF’s unflinching loyalty to the Commander-in-Chief.
On the importance of physical readiness, Abubakar stressed that fitness is now a critical standard for advancement within the NAF.
He said the force has made physical and medical fitness mandatory for promotion.
“As a matter of policy, I have directed that all Performance Evaluation Reports must be accompanied with a Physical Fitness Test Certificate.
“Furthermore, no personnel will be considered for promotion without being medically and physically fit,” he said.
Drawing inspiration from the route march, Abubakar likened it to the NAF’s wider goal of securing the nation, acknowledging that the road to peace is often paved with hurdles.
“Be that as it may, 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.
“Let today’s route march be a reminder of who we are and what we stand for.
“Let it rekindle our fighting spirit and reinforce our shared commitment to the defence of Nigeria.
“We are not just marching on roads, we are marching towards purpose, honour, and victory,” he stated.
