Nigerian Air Force pays tribute to five personnel killed en route to military gGames

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has paid tribute to five personnel who tragically lost their lives in an accident while traveling to represent Nigeria at the African Military Games 2024 in Abuja.

During the Fourth Quarter 2024 Route March exercise held on Saturday across all NAF formations nationwide, a minute of silence was observed to honor the fallen personnel. They were among 19 people killed in an auto crash at Hawan Kibo, located in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Tuesday.

NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, confirmed, “The unfortunate incident occurred near Hawan Kibo on the Jos-Akwanga Express Road. Our personnel were en route to a sporting event in Abuja when their vehicle collided with an oncoming truck.”

In line with established protocols, the NAF has initiated support measures for the bereaved families. Air Commodore Akinboyewa’s statement highlighted the NAF’s dedication to honoring the sacrifices made by its personnel in service to the nation.

Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) and guest of honor at the event, reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to fitness, mental resilience, and operational readiness. He emphasized that physical and mental preparedness is essential for all personnel, especially in light of Nigeria’s security dynamics. The CAS underscored his strategic philosophy of “Deliberate Training and Mission-oriented Force Development” as a pathway to maintaining the NAF’s effectiveness.

In addition, Air Marshal Abubakar shared plans to upgrade NAF sports facilities, including the construction of a state-of-the-art gym at the NAF Special Operations Command and improvements to gyms across various units. He urged regular participation in sports for fitness, teamwork, and talent discovery and mentioned upcoming youth competitions to engage young people on NAF bases.

The exercise, conducted across various NAF units, was a coordinated display of physical and mental resilience, underscoring NAF’s dedication to operational readiness. The event also celebrated the NAF male volleyball team’s promotion to the Premier League after topping the National Division 1 Volleyball League.

The exercise concluded with a solemn call for vigilance, adaptability, and resilience to meet evolving security challenges.