After the exercise in Abuja, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), praised the participants for their high level of fitness and noted that citizens depend on military personnel to protect their lives and property, which cannot be accomplished without physical fitness and mental alertness.
The 10 Km Walk/Jog, according to the CAS, is a sporting event that aims to find new talents for the 2024 Armed Forces Games while also encouraging peaceful cooperation among servicemen and their families.
The CAS added that regular exercise is crucial for military personnel because it prepares them for the demands of their roles, even as it emphasizes the value of staying in shape. CAS states that "we are expected to always maintain a high level of physical and mental readiness, whether we are deployed in an operating room or performing routine tasks." The accomplishment of our overarching goal depends on the abilities and competency of airmen and airwomen, which are directly related to our physical, mental, and intellectual well-being.
Speaking further, Air Marshal Abubakar reminded the staff of the ongoing security threats facing the country and stated that the combined efforts of the NAF and other security agencies would guarantee that criminal activity in all its forms is curbed to the lowest possible level, as well as the freedom of movement of those who commit crimes. The CAS revealed that the NAF has experienced a complete overhaul and improvement of its Order of Battle thanks to the Federal Government's commitment. It should be noted that the Service received two more DA-62 surveillance aircraft approximately two weeks ago, and two days ago, it also received two T-129 ATAK helicopters that will soon be added to the NAF's inventory.
Air Marshal Abubakar gave Nigerians assurance that the NAF is committed to ensuring the complete eradication of the numerous security challenges facing the country, with the additional platforms and others expected soon, as well as the NAF's renewed vigor under his leadership.
The Nigerian National Volleyball League's male and female teams were congratulated by the CAS on their recent promotions to the premier Division One and Premier League, respectively. He particularly calls attention to the outstanding performances of two Air Craft Women, Bulus Faith and Abba A, who stood out as the best server and spiker, respectively, in the Nigerian National Volleyball League Division One.
He also praised the NAF football team competing in the Nigerian National League and the female basketball team qualifying to represent the Armed Forces of Nigeria in the World Military Games, as well as the NAF members who were chosen to compete in the World Military Wrestling Game in Azerbaijan in 2023. "These efforts are indicative of our personnel's commitment to continue to stand out in sporting activities and make the NAF proud," he said. It also demonstrates our dedication to provide the conditions necessary for athletic endeavors to flourish at each of our Bases.