In its transformational agenda to reposition the force for greater efficiency, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recorded another milestone with the commissioning of the Headquarters NAF Annex Complex in Gudu, Abuja.
The new facility, designed to decongest the overstretched Headquarters in Garki, was described as a bold step towards strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing productivity, and boosting personnel welfare.
Disclosing this in a statement on Monday, after the commissioning, the Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said that beyond its administrative value, the project also reinforces the NAF’s capacity to project airpower more effectively in defending the nation and protecting the lives of citizens.
Speaking at the event, the Special Guest of Honour and Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, commended the foresight of the NAF leadership, noting that the project reflects resilience, vision, and commitment to institutional growth.
He observed that since its establishment in 1964, the Air Force has expanded tremendously in scope and responsibility, creating the need for new administrative and operational support structures.
According to him, relocating key branches such as the Air Secretary, Standards and Evaluation, Transformation and Innovation, as well as the 051 Personnel Management Group and an Annex of the Chief of the Air Staff’s Office, would not only ease congestion but also provide a firmer institutional foundation for the future.
“This Annex is a reflection of the Air Force’s habit of excellence and foresight,” the Minister stated, while praising the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, for aligning the project with his Command Philosophy of maintaining a highly motivated force through welfare and infrastructural renewal.
In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff explained that the Gudu Annex was deliberately acquired and remodelled to create a conducive work environment and strengthen coordination. He emphasised that the project underscores the Service’s commitment to excellence and welfare, noting that motivation thrives where efficiency and infrastructure are prioritised. “The commissioning of the HQ NAF Annex stands as a testament to our dynamism, resilience, and forward-looking posture,” he said.
Both speakers expressed profound gratitude to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose unwavering support, strategic guidance, and investment in security sector reforms made the project possible. The Minister of Defence thereafter performed the formal commissioning of the NAF Headquarters Annex Complex, Gudu, dedicating it to the glory of God and the service of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sani, described the commissioning of the Headquarters Nigerian Air Force Annex Complex in Gudu as more than the unveiling of a new structure.
He noted that the event represents a defining milestone in the continuous transformation and dynamic growth of the Nigerian Air Force. Several dignitaries attended the occasion, including the Acting Chairman Senate Committee on Air Force, Senator Augustine Akobundu; the Chairman House Committee on Air Force, Honourable Kabiru Al-Hassan Rurum; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Service Chiefs and other senior officers.
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