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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced a lineup of activities to commemorate its 61st anniversary, celebrating over six decades of airpower excellence and operational transformation in defence of national sovereignty.
Chairman of the Organising Committee for NAF Day 2025, Air Commodore Sylvester Eyoma, disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja. The anniversary celebration, scheduled for 20 May, will again coincide with the 4th African Air Forces Forum, holding separately this year in Lagos.
Air Commodore Eyoma noted that the NAF has recorded significant operational successes through precision airstrikes, coordinated operations, and advanced surveillance technologies.
“These efforts have disrupted terrorist logistics networks, supported ground troops, and contributed meaningfully to ongoing national security operations,” he said.
He added that over the last six decades, the Air Force has undergone extensive organisational and equipment transformation, significantly enhancing its capacity to meet constitutional obligations.
“This year, we celebrate 61 years of unwavering dedication to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty,” Eyoma stated.
Themed “Optimising Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations”, the celebration underscores the importance of public engagement in successful military operations.
Key Anniversary Activities
Highlights of the celebration include:
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Chief of the Air Staff’s Literary Competition: Held between February and April, with winners to be honoured during the NAF Reunion Dinner on 20 May.
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Base Open Days and Career Talks: Conducted from 1–14 May across NAF commands to familiarise civilians with Air Force operations.
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Golf Tournament and Community Projects: Including the commissioning of a clinic in Rukubi, Nasarawa State, on 15 May.
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Induction of Augusta 109S Trekker Helicopter: Scheduled for 16 May, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR expected as Special Guest of Honour.
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Medical Outreach and R&D Exhibition: On 17 May, featuring partnerships with Lagos State University and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).
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International Colloquium on Space Technology: On 19 May, with an MoU signing between NAF and the University of Bradford’s Space Development Centre.
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Closing Events: A seminar and symbolic fly-past on 20 May, followed by the official NAF Reunion Dinner.
African Air Forces Forum
The 4th African Air Forces Forum will hold at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, on 22–23 May, under the theme “Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security.”
The forum will bring together over 2,000 participants, including Air Force Chiefs, defence experts, and more than 30 African Air Forces. At least 12 Chiefs of Air Staff and 45 aerospace and defence companies including Airbus, Embraer, Jet Aviation, and local firms such as Bridge UAS and DICON are expected.
Eyoma urged local innovators in aviation, defence, and security to seize the opportunity to showcase their capabilities and forge strategic partnerships.
Public Engagement and Security
He also reassured residents of Abuja and Lagos not to be alarmed by the increased movement of aircraft and personnel during the period.
“The Nigerian Air Force remains resolute in its mission to defend the nation and promote peace,” Eyoma said. “With the support of the citizenry and the media, we look forward to a memorable and impactful celebration.”
He further appreciated Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, for his support in enhancing the image and operations of the service.
For participation and further details, the public is encouraged to contact the NAF via navday2025@airforce.mail.ng or through its verified social media platforms.
