The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has continued to prioritize safety as a core pillar of its operational excellence, as demonstrated during the second Safety Review Board (SRB) meeting for 2024. Led by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the SRB provided a platform to review achievements, address challenges, and set new goals in safety management. The CAS emphasised the importance of leadership in fostering a robust safety culture, reiterating that safety is integral to mission success and must be engrained in all NAF activities.
This year's focus has been on improving safety through innovation, education, and accountability. With over 2,500 personnel trained in safety-related fields and the introduction of specialised programs such as the Aircraft Accident Investigation Course, NAF is investing in equipping its personnel with the skills needed to uphold safety standards. The establishment of the Directorate of Airworthiness and Certification further demonstrates NAF's commitment to proactive risk management and hazard identification.
The CAS urged commanders and unit leaders to transition from routine to performance-based safety management, leveraging technology and data analysis to optimise safety practices. He reaffirmed his mandate that every NAF personnel must participate in at least one safety program in 2025, reinforcing safety as a shared responsibility. The SRB underscored that maintaining high safety standards not only ensures operational success but also safeguards the lives of airmen and airwomen.
With a clear roadmap for 2025 and the unwavering support of the Federal Government, the NAF is poised to achieve even greater safety milestones. As the CAS aptly quoted, "It takes leadership to improve safety." He also expressed the unflinching loyalty and appreciation of the NAF to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support and commitment to enhancing the Air Force's operational capabilities and safety standards. Together, through leadership, innovation, and collaboration, the NAF is setting a benchmark for excellence in air power and safety culture.
