By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) says strengthening logistics remains critical to boosting nationwide airpower projection as the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) intensifies operations against insurgency and terrorism.
The CAS stated this during a three-day operational visit to Logistics Command in Lagos to assess personnel readiness, equipment serviceability and facilities that sustain air operations across the country.
The Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made this known in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.
The CAS said modern air warfare was driven by logistics efficiency, stressing that sustained airpower depended on resilient supply chains, effective maintenance systems and a highly motivated workforce.
According to him, the reach, tempo and endurance of NAF air missions are directly linked to the strength of its logistics architecture, noting that aircraft availability, mission turnaround time and operational sustainability all hinge on robust logistics support.
He described Lagos as central to the NAF’s airpower projection, hosting Logistics Command and key establishments that provide critical support to ongoing operations nationwide.
“Lagos is the backbone of our logistics ecosystem and a key enabler of airpower projection across all theatres,” he said.
During a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the CAS reaffirmed the strategic partnership between the NAF and the state government.
He said that a secure and stable Lagos environment directly enhanced logistics efficiency and operational output.
The CAS also highlighted joint security efforts under Operation MESA, where air surveillance and intelligence assets support ground operations, further enhancing operational effectiveness.
As part of efforts to strengthen the human element of logistics, the CAS commissioned new welfare infrastructure at 055 NAF Camp, Legico Barracks, describing personnel welfare as a force multiplier for logistics performance and mission success.
He said the projects—comprising residential blocks and a Sports complex—would improve morale, reduce welfare pressures and enable personnel to focus on sustaining aircraft availability and mission readiness.
The CAS commended his predecessor, Air Marshal HB Abubakar (rtd), for initiating the projects, and thanked the Federal Government and National Assembly for continued support.
He also expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustained backing of the NAF, charging officers, airmen and airwomen to remain disciplined and professional.
He said the visit underscored the NAF’s strategy of integrating logistics readiness, personnel welfare and intergovernmental cooperation to boost airpower projection and maintain a responsive, mission-ready force capable of defending Nigeria’s airspace and national security. (NAN)
