By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has expressed the desire of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), to pursue locally driven solutions in addressing the nation’s security challenges.

Abubakar stated this at the NAF Research and Development Competition and Exhibition organised as part of activities marking the NAF’s 61st Anniversary, on Saturday in Abuja.

According to him, in a rapidly changing world, the ability to continue to anticipate, rapidly adapt and innovate is imperative for the transformation of the NAF into an agile and resilient force that effectively meets the air power demands of national security in all operational environments.

He said the competitions and exhibitions served as impetus to push the boundaries of their abilities and expertise to greater heights.

“NAF plays a central role in defending our nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“As direct evolution and technology advances, the demands for locally driven solutions become increasingly urgent.

“In response, the service has made steady progress through dedicated research, development and innovation, emerging as a national leader in aerospace advancements.

“For instance, the development of rockets and launchers, heat shields, weaponisation of aircraft, retrofitting of unserviceable rockets, production of blank firing adapters, and the various unmanned aerial systems prototypes.

“This, coupled with innovative human capacity development in science, technology and innovation, are a few examples of creativity and technical skills acquired by the NAF over the years.

“These feats have indeed helped in sustaining our operations in the various theaters across the country.

“In recognition of the vital place of research and development, we have recently installed eight assorted computer and numerical control machines at the Air Force Research and Development Institute in Osogbo,” he said.

The CAS said that the production of six unmanned aerial vehicles, in collaboration with UAVision of Portugal, was expected to be completed and operationalised in the last quarter of the year.

He added that other steps taken to enhance research and development include the selection of and funding five best projects selected from the last inter-command research and development competition for operationalisation.

“These projects, when completed, will be deployed in appropriate rules with a view to monitoring and constantly improving the performance of the initial photo types.

“I want to assure you that some of the outstanding projects on display today will similarly attract funding towards the operationalisation.

“In the spirit of civil military cooperation, let me use this opportunity to encourage members of the Defense Industries Association of Nigeria to take a look at some of these projects with a view to partnering with the NAF for their operationalisation and possible commercialisation.

“Through this approach, we can incrementally advance our promising innovations towards expeditious completion, operationalisation, and sale to both local and potential foreign customers.

The Executive Vice Chairman, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Khalil Halilu, said the R&D Competition and Exhibition exemplified NAF’s commitment to innovation, self-reliance, and technological advancement.

Halilu said NAF had consistently led the charge in harnessing research and development to strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities.

According to him, this event showcases not only NAF’s innovative solutions, but also resolve to address contemporary security challenges through homegrown technologies.

In her remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, expressed the commitment of the university to partnering the NAF in defence technology.

Olatunji-Bello said the collaboration aligned perfectly with their vision to be a globally comprehensive, competitive university that produces graduates who are not only academically sound but also solution-driven.

In his remarks, the Vice President, Defence Industries Association of Nigeria (DIAN), Ade Ogundeyin, commended NAF for its continuous efforts in modernising air operations, enhancing research and development, and fostering civil military cooperation.

Ogundeyin said that DIAN was established to promote local industry, defence manufacturing, and enhance Nigeria’s military industrial capabilities, aimed to advance indigenous defence technology through innovation and strategic partnerships.

He said the theme of the exhibition, “Optimising Civil-Military Cooperation in Research and Development to Enhance Air Operations”, was both timely and commendable.

“By fostering partnerships between defence industries and institutions, research bodies, and the academia and private industries, Nigeria is positioning itself for self-sufficiency in aerospace technology and defence manufacturing,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NAF used the occasion to formalise partnerships with Equipment Protective Applications International Limited (Epail), a Nigerian defence contractor and Logos State University.

The Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with the firm is aimed at enhancing collaboration to develop local solutions to national security challenges. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

By Emmanuel Antswen

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Saturday conducted free medical outreach in Benue as part of activities to commemorate its 61st anniversary celebration.

The Chief of Staff (CAS), AVM Ahmed Idris, flagged off the outreach at NKST Primary School Akile, Makurdi.

Idris was represented at the event by AVM Patrick Obeya, Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Tactical Air Command (TAC) Makurdi.

The CAS said that the NAF Day was an annual event that recognises, appreciates and celebrates personnel’s doggedness and resilience in attaining the overall mission of the service.

He added that the outreach was to encourage members of the public to connect with NAF.

Idris stated that the medical outreach was another milestone in enhancing the civil-military relationship between NAF personnel and civilians in Benue and Nigeria at large.

He said TAC would continue to support Akile Community, Fiidi Council Ward and Benue at large in the area of internal security operations in every way humanly possible.

“As a fighting force, it is our core responsibility to protect the lives and property of the Nigerian citizens.

“This is to ensure that the peace and tranquillity we are all enjoying are maintained. It is also for the sustenance of the cordial relationships with our immediate communities and the society.

“NAF is aware of the security challenges in some parts of the state, and it is determined to end them and restore peace so that Benue continues to maintain its status as the food basket of the nation,” he said.

Earlier, the Commander, 161 Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Air Commodore Gideon Bako, described a healthy nation as a wealthy nation.

Bako said the exercise signifies NAF’s commitment to improving civil-military relationships.

“There will also be a free eye examination and distribution of reading glasses. Deworming against intestinal helminths will also be conducted in addition to treatment for malaria and other infections.

“Furthermore, we shall also screen for diabetes, hypertension and hepatitis B virus. We will provide long-lasting insecticide-treated nets to children under five years old.

“The health professionals are here and ready to help you out with your health concerns.

“Some surgical condition that may require further treatment will be identified and provision made for such treatment to take place at our base medical facility,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of Akile Community, Rev. Alexander Shima commended NAF for the continued support in areas of security and now healthcare service delivery.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the 2025 NAF Day Celebration is “Optimising Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Peter Amine

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Road Safety Officers Wives Association (ROSOWA) has donated food and other items to two orphanages in the FCT, as part of activities to commemorate the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week.

Speaking at the event on Saturday in Abuja, the ROSOWA President, Dr Nafisat Shehu-Mohammed, said the initiative was part of the association’s commitment to community development.

Shehu-Mohammed said that it was also part of ROSOWA’s ongoing support for the less privileged, especially orphans.

Shehu-Mohammed said that the gesture was not only to commemorate the global week but also to show love and care to the most vulnerable in society.

“The outreach was not only in alignment with the global campaign for safer roads but also a heartfelt gesture to show compassion and solidarity with the vulnerable.

“In line with the objectives of the United Nations Global Road Safety Week, we believe road safety is not limited to enforcing traffic laws.

“It also involves caring for lives, especially the most vulnerable ones.

“Children are among the most affected by unsafe roads, and we must continue to advocate for their protection while also meeting their immediate needs.

“While we continue to agitate and yearn for safer roads, we also recognise the importance of showing love and unity within our community,” the ROSOWA president said.

Shehu-Mohammed emphasised that the week-long event was a reminder of the urgent need for safer roads, improved mobility, and inclusive support systems for all.

She said that the association’s presence at the orphanages was a way to demonstrate that the children were not forgotten, despite their challenges.

“We are here to let them know that ROSOWA cares. Amidst their trials and tribulations, we want them to feel the warmth of being part of a larger community.

“It is our way of saying: you are loved, you matter, and you belong,” she maintained.

The ROSOWA President called on members of the public, particularly the more privileged, to emulate the gesture and support the underprivileged in their various communities.

She said “It’s also a reminder to the community and the wider populace that there’s still a lot more to be done.

“We all have a role to play in supporting the needy and in building a safer, more inclusive society.”

Receiving the items on behalf of the Hope for Survival Orphanage, the Administrator, Mr Cephas Thaddeus, expressed heartfelt gratitude to ROSOWA, describing the donation as timely and impactful.

“We are deeply grateful to ROSOWA for remembering us, especially at a time when resources are stretched.

“These items will go a long way in catering to the children’s needs and making them feel loved and valued,” he said.

Similarly, a representative at the Mother Theresa Orphanage thanked the association for its continued support and compassion and called on other organisations and individuals to emulate ROSOWA’s example.

“This is not the first time ROSOWA is reaching out to us, and we are always encouraged by their generosity. Support like this lifts the spirits of the children and gives them hope,” the representative said.

The items donated included foodstuffs, toiletries, beverages, and other daily necessities.

The 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week, themed “Streets for life: Making Walking Safe, Make Cycling Safe” emphasises the need for inclusive and sustainable transport systems that protect lives, particularly those of cyclists and pedestrians.

ROSOWA’s outreach forms part of its broader humanitarian and advocacy efforts, which align with the United Nations’ Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021–2030), aimed at reducing road traffic deaths and injuries by at least 50 per cent. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Democracy

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

A former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, says in spite of the imperfections in democracy, the era of military rule must remain behind Nigeria.

Gowon stated this in Abuja at the unveiling of a book titled “Military Factor in Nigerian History, 1960-2018” by the Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN), as part of activities to mark the association’s 70th anniversary.

He said that while the military and its various regimes had contributed monumentally to the peace and economic development of Nigeria, it must continue to support the advancement of democracy and national development.

“The era of military governance is and must remain behind us. Democracy, despite its imperfections, provides the best framework for national development and popular participation.

“The armed forces must fully embrace their constitutional role as defenders of the nation’s territorial integrity, not as administrators or political actors,’’ he said.

Gowon, who chaired the occasion, said that the military factor in Nigerian history is neither a simple story of heroism nor villainy.

He described it as a complex narrative of an institution that had been deeply intertwined with the country’s national journey.

The former head of state observed  that the question of whether the military has been a hero or villain in Nigeria’s development journey is perhaps the most contested.

“With the wisdom that comes from age and reflection, I believe the answer lies somewhere in between. On one hand, the military preserved national unity during the civil war.

“We built infrastructure, created states to bring the government closer to the people, and at times restored order when civilian structures faltered.

“Our armed forces have distinguished themselves in peacekeeping operations across Africa and beyond.

“On the other hand, I must acknowledge that military rule stifled democratic development, sometimes violated civil liberties, and created structures that enabled corruption.

“The interruption of our democratic journey in 1966, 1983, and the annulment of the June 12, 1993 elections represented dark chapters in our history that we must confront honestly.

“However, by acknowledging these mistakes, we pave the way for a brighter, more democratic future,’’ Gowon said.

Reflecting on the civil war in Nigeria, Gowon described it as the most painful episode in Nigeria history, “but one that ultimately reaffirmed our commitment to national unity.’’

Commenting on the current security challenges, Gowon said that addressing it demanded a military that is technologically sophisticated and intelligence-driven.

He also advised the armed forces to become more integrated with civilian institutions and society.

He said the military should not stand apart from the people but should be seen as an essential component of the national fabric, working in tandem with civilian authorities

According to him, the Nigerian military must continue to play a vital role in regional security while strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities.

Former Chief of Defence Staff, retired Gen. Lucky Irabor, in his keynote address, also said that the military had made immense contributions to the peace and development of Nigeria.

Irabor said that in terms of development, the military had been engaging in the construction of roads, bridges, dams, and several other tasks that have boosted economic development in the country.

“Diplomatically, the military has been active. Their participation in various peace and peace enforcement efforts across Africa and the rest of the world have boosted the image of the country globally.

“On the other hand, the military regimes have had both positive and negative impacts on our national development journey.

“The political, economic, and social development of the country have been shaped by military regimes in multiple ways.

“The outcomes of the infrastructural developments and back-to-back military regimes are eloquent testimonies,” he said.

He also listed some of the achievements and interventions of military regimes to the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps programme, development of shipping lines, among others.

Irabor, however, said that in spite of the positive contributions, the issues of human rights and perceived suppression of public freedoms during military regimes had come under very serious scrutiny.

Commending the forum for unveiling the book, he said it was very important to appreciate the past and set goals and visions for the future.

He expressed optimism that the book will inspire dialogues, debates, and deeper inquiry into the forces that shaped, going to further shape the development of the country.

The book reviewer, Prof. Patrick Ukase, described the 598 pages book as a well researched book that analysed the various military regimes in the country.

Ukase said that the book under review was a comprehensive examination of Nigeria’s military’s multi-faceted role in shaping the nation’s political, social, and economic landscapes.

Ukase said that the book, structured into six thematic areas, encompassing 27 chapters, offered a nuanced analysis of the military’s influence on Nigeria’s post-colonial development trajectory.

“It is a vital resource and highly recommended for the Nigerian military, other security forces, scholars, students, policymakers, and security professionals.

“It is a well-researched, comprehensive work that offers a valuable perspective on the history, structure, contributions, and policies of the Nigerian military,’’ Ukase said.

The Acting President of the Society, Prof. Zara Kwaghe, said the idea of the book was conceived at the 2024 annual conference of association, in recognition of the military’s major role in the unity and development of Nigeria.

Kwaghe said that Nigeria military had been strategic in keeping the country together, urging Nigerians to keep supporting them.

She urged the military to continue to do what they have been doing to help the nation to stay together and to move forward in peace. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Editted by Abdulfatai Beki and Yakubu Uba

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says that boys are often primary targets for recruitment into non-state armed groups and other purveyors of violence.

Musa, represented by the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Affairs, Rear Adm. Olusanya Bankole, stated this at the event organised by the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) to commemorate the International Day of the Boy Child, on Thursday in Abuja.

The theme for the 2025 celebration is, “Celebrating Boys: Empowering and Nurturing Our Future Leaders”.

He said the boys were sometimes seen as experimentable assets in conflicts and criminal enterprises, adding that they were often robbed of their innocence and forced into lives of brutality and despair.

He said the event served as a crucial reminder of the unique place and potential of the boy child in the society, and the imperative need to focus collective attention on their well-being, development, and protection.

“In many parts of our country, the boy child faces significant educational disadvantages, contributing to the challenge of out-of-school children.

“Factors such as economic hardship, cultural norms that prioritise early-labor over-schooling and insecurity in conflict-affected regions disproportionately impact boys’ access to education.

“Without foundational education and skills, these boys are left vulnerable, increasing their risk of falling into poverty, engaging in illicit activities, or becoming susceptible to recruitment by criminal organisations, bandits or extremist groups, who exploit their lack of opportunity and sense of marginalisation.

“Furthermore, boys are often primary targets for recruitment into non-state armed groups, polls, and other purviews of violence,” he said.

The CDS said the nation’s strength was not solely measured by its military might or economic indices, but by the quality, character, and resilience of its people.

According to him, the foundation of this strength is, therefore, laid in the formative years of children, particularly the boy child.

He said the specific challenges and vulnerabilities faced by the boy child had for too long not received the commensurate attention they deserved.

According to him, significant and necessary focus has been placed on empowering the boy child, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria, fully supports and champions.

“We must acknowledge that the boy child also faces distinct pressures, expectations, and threats that can impede positive development and the potential to contribute meaningfully to our society.

“Our young boys are growing up in a complex and rapidly changing world.

“They are navigating societal expectations that often place immense pressure on them to be providers, strong and stoic, sometimes at the expense of their emotional well-being.

“They are exposed to various influences, both positive and negative, through traditional channels and increasingly through the digital space, that is, social media,” he added.

Musa said that efforts must be doubled down to ensure every boy, had access to quality and relevant education from basic literacy to advanced skills in arts, sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as vocational training.

He said that education equips them with the recruited knowledge and critical training skills necessary to navigate the complexities of their modern world, resist negative influences, and contribute to the economy.

In her remarks, the President of DEPOWA, Mrs Oghogho Musa, emphasised the need for the boy child to be properly nurtured so as to have future responsible men.

Mrs Musa said the society could not afford to raise future leaders in emotional silence, adding that there was need to examine the boys to understand how they were being built and shaped to become confident, respectful and compassionate men.

She said it was wrong to allow violence, pressure, and rigid expectations to become their teachers, saying that even though boys love freedom, they also crave guidance, affirmation, and purpose.

“Let us not wait until they are broken before we teach them how to heal.

“This celebration is part of a bigger vision to create safe space, leadership platforms, and mentorship for boys across Nigeria’s defence and police communities.

“Boys don’t just become men, they become the men we show them how to be.

“From mental health awareness, to academic excellence, to emotional intelligence, we are committed to raising balanced, bold and brilliant young men,”she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the International Day of the Boy Child was introduced on May 16, 2018 to complement the International Day of the Girl Child being celebrated on Oct. 11.

The event had in attendance, boys from the military and police schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) who were exposed to a series of mentoring and empowerment by different professionals. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba