By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has promoted four Group Captains with special promotion to the exalted rank of Air Commodores for exhibiting unparalleled dedication and loyalty to the service.

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, AVM Edward Gabkwet, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Gabkwet said the officers, who would also begin their retirement from the NAF forthwith, were decorated with their new ranks in the full glare of their families, friends and colleagues by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.

He said the promotion of the officers, conducted outside the typical promotion timeline, showcased the profound contributions they had made to both the NAF and the nation.

Among the officers, according to him, is Air Commodore John Opara, honoured for his outstanding performance as an astute administrative officer.

“The ceremony also highlighted the careers of two NAF Chaplains and Imam, Air Commodores Okechukwu Godson Okoye, David Ajar Ahmadu, and Tahir Bin-Isah.”

In his remarks, the CAS, Air Marshal Abubakar, commended the officers for their extraordinary dedication and the significant impact they have made on the NAF.

Abubakar said that Opara’s unwavering dedication and significant contributions were recognised, affirming the belief that ‘delay is not denial’.

He described the officer as one of the few highly experienced, dynamic and versatile administrative officers who made significant and remarkable contributions to the attainment of NAF’s operational objectives.

The CAS also said two chaplains and the Iman were responsible for fostering unity and mutual respect across different faiths within and outside the service.

He said that their commitments to the emotional and spiritual well-being of NAF’s personnel, were acknowledged as a cornerstone of NAF’s moral strength.

“As you embark on this new chapter of your lives, know that your legacies will endure.

“The lives you have touched and the positive impacts you have made will continue to resonate within our Air Force family,” he said.

The CAS also used the opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable support of their spouses, families, and friends whose unwavering love, patience, and encouragement have been crucial to the success of the officers’ careers.

He then urged them to remember that their sacrifices have been recognised and their contributions deeply cherished, even as they transition into retirement.

Earlier, the Chief of Administration (COA), AVM Idi Sani, said that the four officers were found worthy both in character and professionalism to have been promoted by the Air Force Council to substantive Air Commodores, after thorough and rigorous scrutiny.

Sani said that the promoted officers’ dedication and contributions to the NAF and the nation were highlighted as key factors in their advancement.

He added that their promotion also reflected the NAF’s commitment to recognising and rewarding excellence. (NAN)

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