As part of efforts geared towards ensuring a high level of physical fitness and mental alertness for operational readiness and effectiveness, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has conducted the year 2023 Annual 10km Walk/Jog for its personnel in Abuja and other units across the country. In his remarks after the exercise in Abuja, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar commended the participants for showcasing high level of fitness noting that the citizens depend on the members of the Armed Forces for their safety of lives and properties which cannot be achieved without physical fitness and mental alertness. The CAS emphasized that sporting events like the 10 Km Walk/Jog was also aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence amongst personnel and their families as well as, serve as an avenue for discovering new talents for the upcoming 2024 Armed Forces Games. 

While highlighting the importance of regular exercises to keep fit, the CAS stated that it essential for military personnel as it prepares them for occupational demand of roles. According to the CAS, “whether being deployed in an operating theatre or undertaking routine tasks, we are expected to always maintain a high level of physical and mental readiness. As airmen and airwomen, the success of the NAF directly reflects on our skills and competence which are also tied to our physical, mental and intellectual wellbeing, which is critical to attaining our overall objective.”

Speaking further, Air Marshal Abubakar reminded the personnel about the prevalent security challenges facing the nation, while noting that the concerted efforts of the NAF alongside other security agencies would ensure that all forms of criminality and the criminals' freedom of movement are reduce to the barest minimum. The CAS disclosed that through the commitment of the Federal Government, the NAF has witness a total overhaul and enhancement of its Order of Battle, recalling that about 2 weeks ago, the Service took delivery of 2 additional DA-62 surveillance aircraft and only 2 days ago, also received 2 T-129 ATAK helicopters soon to be inducted into the inventory of the NAF. Air Marshal Abubakar assured that with the additional platforms and others being expected in no time, as well as the renewed vigour of the NAF under his leadership, Nigerians can be rest assured of the commitment of the NAF to ensuring total eradication of the myriads of security challenges facing the nation.   

The CAS also used the occasion to congratulate the NAF volleyball male and female teams in the Nigerian National Volleyball League who recently gained promotion to the elite Division One and Premiere League respectively. He specifically single out the exceptional performances of 2 Air Craft Women, Bulus Faith and Abba A, who both distinguished themselves during the Nigerian National Volleyball League Division One as the best spiker and best server respectively. He also commended NAF personnel who were selected to participate in the World Military Wrestling Game at Azerbaijan 2023, as well as NAF Football Team playing in the Nigerian National League and Female Basketball Team that qualified to represent Armed Forces of Nigeria in the World Military Games. According to him, “These efforts are indicative of the commitment of our personnel to continue to stand out in sporting activities while also making the NAF proud. It is also an indication of our commitment to providing the enabling environment for sporting activities to thrive in our various Bases”.