House Committee on Air Force Advocates Closer Collaboration to Bolster NAF Operational Capabilities

House Committee on Air Force Advocates Closer Collaboration to Bolster NAF Operational Capabilities

On Wednesday March 13, 2024, members of the House of Representatives Committee on Air Force, led by its Chairman, Honourable Kabiru Alhassan Rurum, convened at Headquarters of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as part of their oversight duties, where he emphasised that the visit, mandated by the Constitution and House of Representatives Standing Orders, aimed to foster a strong partnership between the National Assembly (NASS) and the NAF.

Highlighting the Committee’s role in budget allocation, policy amendments, public perception, and community engagement, Honourable Rurum affirmed their commitment to supporting the NAF. “I will like to stress that open communication and collaboration is important in our bid to address challenges and enhance NAF’s operational capacity, ” he said.

Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), briefed the members on Nigeria’s security landscape, noting the evolving threats posed by terrorists, kidnappers, and secessionists across different regions. Despite these challenges, he highlighted the NAF’s ongoing air operations and successes, attributing them to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support and recent acquisitions, including T-129 ATAK Helicopters.

However, Air Marshal Abubakar also outlined pressing challenges facing the NAF, such as soaring fuel prices and the need for enhanced tactical airlift capability and air defence infrastructure. He appealed for support in addressing these challenges, including permission for independent fuel importation.

The Committee Chairman, accompanied by Honourable Rufus Ojuawo and 18 other members, engaged in fruitful discussions aimed at addressing these challenges and strengthening NAF’s operational capabilities.

House Committee on Air Force Advocates Closer Collaboration to Bolster NAF Operational Capabilities