Amid Nigeria’s growing security challenges, the Nigerian Air Force has unveiled plans for a nationwide programme aimed at retrieving arms and ammunition from its retired personnel.
Speaking during a parley with Air Force veterans, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the initiative will regulate weapon possession among retired officers, ensuring that only arms legally permitted for their status are held while strengthening national security efforts.
It was a double-barrelled engagement for the Nigerian Air Force at the Air Force Base in Abuja.
The first was a parley with Air Force veterans and other retired personnel, where their contributions to national development were described as invaluable and worthy of recognition.
Represented by the Chief of Administration, the Chief of Air Staff said the Nigerian Air Force is evolving new strategies to keep the force resilient, professional, and fully prepared to confront Nigeria’s emerging security challenges.
The focus later shifted to the Base Socio-Cultural Activities, BASA, where the Nigerian Air Force showcased Nigeria’s rich story through culture, tradition, and the nation’s diverse heritage.
Former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao, who was the special guest at the event, underscored the importance of national unity, peaceful coexistence, and collective responsibility among Nigerians.
Some of the retired personnel also shared their post-service experiences, reflecting on life outside the force, the challenges of reintegration, and their continued commitment to national development.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to deserving officers, vibrant displays of cultural cuisines and traditional dances, as well as the symbolic burn-fire ritual of the force, highlighting heritage, honour, and unity
Beyond celebration and culture, the programme reinforces the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to national security, unity, and institutional strength bridging the past, present, and future of the force.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
