Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), on Thursday, reaffirmed the critical importance of air power in ongoing security operations in the country, declaring that it remained “central to the successes recorded across multiple theatres.”

The Minister stated this in Abuja while speaking at the investiture ceremony for newly promoted senior officers comprising Air Commodores and Air Vice Marshals at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters.

He pointed out that the elevation of senior officers reflected not only personal achievement but also the nation’s confidence in their ability to provide strategic leadership at a defining moment for national security.

The Minister noted that the new ranks come with expanded responsibilities essential to safeguarding the nation and advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration.

He explained that promotion to the rank of Air Vice Marshal demands a broader outlook, heightened discipline, and deeper commitment to excellence.

He described the newly promoted officers as custodians of the traditions and values that define the Nigerian Air Force, noting that their leadership philosophy and decisions will shape the effectiveness of air operations and influence the next generation of military leaders.

According to him, “the expectations placed on you are high because your elevated position requires clear vision, steady judgement, and an enduring sense of purpose.”

The Minister urged the newly promoted senior officers to embrace their roles with dedication and humility.

General Musa further underscored the decisive role of air power in shaping operational outcomes, praising NAF for its contributions in precision engagements, tactical mobility, and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions that have significantly strengthened joint operations.

He emphasised that Nigeria’s security challenges required deepened inter-service cooperation, as no service can succeed in isolation.

According to him, “Air operations achieve their full potential only when seamlessly integrated with the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy, and all national security agencies.”

He called on the newly promoted Air Vice Marshals to strengthen collaboration and intelligence-sharing at all levels.

The Minister assured that the Defence Ministry under his watch would intensify efforts to provide the needed support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies to tackle the growing security challenges in the country.

Gen Musa, who commended the CAS for his exemplary leadership, which continues to advance the professional excellence and operational focus of the Service, also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Armed Forces.

Speaking while welcoming guests, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, congratulated the officers and reiterated that military rank is earned through diligence, competence, and character.

The Air Chief emphasised that the ceremony came at a time when Nigeria was facing complex and evolving security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and emerging threats within the information and cyber domains.

According to him, “the new ranks conferred on you today testify to your readiness for higher leadership. Rank is not only worn on the shoulders; it is carried in the mind and in the character,” noting that the officers must demonstrate exemplary leadership in translating strategic directives into actionable results.

He reaffirmed that the Renewed Hope Agenda recognised security as the foundation of national development and that the Ministry of Defence remained committed to enhancing the capabilities of the Armed Forces through strategic policy direction, sustained capacity building, and strengthened institutional oversight.

Both the Minister and the CAS paid tribute to fallen heroes and personnel who continue to bear the scars of service, acknowledging their sacrifices as a solemn reminder of the weight of responsibility carried by senior leaders (Nigerian Tribune)