Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Hassan Abubakar has assumed office as the 22nd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of the Nigerian Air Force. He officially took over from his predecessor, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao, in a ceremony held at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja. AVM Abubakar expressed his gratitude to Air Marshal Amao, describing him as a great achiever and mentor whose enduring legacies will be remembered. He acknowledged the achievements made by Air Marshal Amao in areas such as air operations, doctrinal and human capacity development, and logistics support systems. AVM Abubakar pledged to build upon these achievements and lead the Nigerian Air Force to even greater heights.
In his speech, Air Marshal Amao attributed the successes achieved during his tenure to the support of the Federal Government and the commitment demonstrated by the men and women of the Nigerian Air Force. He praised their dedication and sacrifice, referring to their performance as exceptional. Air Marshal Amao expressed his appreciation to the officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian staff for their support and urged them to continue displaying a higher sense of duty, discipline, and cooperation under the new administration.
AVM Abubakar’s appointment as the 22nd CAS was made by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on June 19, 2023. The change in leadership signifies a new chapter for the Nigerian Air Force, with AVM Abubakar assuming the responsibility of leading the force and further advancing its capabilities.
The transition of leadership in the Nigerian Air Force highlights the commitment to continuity and building upon the accomplishments of the previous administration. AVM Abubakar’s promise to build on the enduring legacies left by Air Marshal Amao underscores the collective goal of the Nigerian Air Force to continuously enhance its operational capabilities, personnel development, and logistical support systems in order to effectively fulfill its duties in safeguarding the nation.