The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) has underscored the importance of strengthening logistics as a critical factor in boosting nationwide airpower projection, as the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) intensifies operations against insurgency and terrorism.
The CAS made this known during a three-day operational visit to the Logistics Command in Lagos, aimed at assessing personnel readiness, equipment serviceability and facilities that sustain air operations across the country.
This was disclosed in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
According to the CAS, modern air warfare is increasingly driven by logistics efficiency, stressing that sustained airpower depends on resilient supply chains, effective maintenance systems and a highly motivated workforce.
He noted that the reach, tempo and endurance of NAF missions are directly linked to the strength of its logistics architecture.
“Aircraft availability, mission turnaround time and operational sustainability all hinge on robust logistics support,” he said.
The CAS described Lagos as central to Nigeria’s airpower projection, noting that the city hosts the Logistics Command and other key NAF establishments that provide critical support to ongoing operations nationwide.
“Lagos is the backbone of our logistics ecosystem and a key enabler of airpower projection across all theatres,” he said.
During a courtesy visit to Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the CAS reaffirmed the strategic partnership between the NAF and the state government, noting that a secure and stable Lagos environment directly enhances logistics efficiency and operational output.
He also highlighted joint security efforts under Operation MESA, where air surveillance and intelligence assets support ground operations, thereby strengthening overall operational effectiveness.
As part of efforts to enhance the human element of logistics support, the CAS commissioned new welfare infrastructure at 055 NAF Camp, Legico Barracks, describing personnel welfare as a force multiplier for logistics performance and mission success.
He said the projects, comprising residential blocks and a sports complex, would improve morale, reduce welfare pressures and enable personnel to focus on sustaining aircraft availability and mission readiness.
The CAS commended his predecessor, Air Marshal H.B. Abubakar (rtd), for initiating the projects, and expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the National Assembly for their continued support.
He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustained backing of the NAF, while charging officers, airmen and airwomen to remain disciplined and professional.
According to him, the visit underscored the NAF’s strategy of integrating logistics readiness, personnel welfare and intergovernmental cooperation to boost airpower projection and maintain a responsive, mission-ready force capable of defending Nigeria’s airspace and national security.