The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, on Monday inaugurated the newly completed Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters Annex in Gudu, Abuja.
Badaru described the new structure as a testament to the NAF’s commitment to institutional growth and operational excellence.
He said the new edifice underscored the resilience and foresight of NAF in addressing its expanding administrative and operational demands driven by its growing roles in national security.
He noted that since its establishment in 1964, the Air Force had witnessed tremendous expansion in scope and responsibilities, which had overstretched the main headquarters in Garki despite previous extensions.
According to him, the leadership of the NAF, under the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, took proactive steps to remodel and complete the Gudu facility to decongest the headquarters.
“This complex reflects the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to operational excellence, strategic foresight and institutional consolidation.
“It is also in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises security, welfare, and infrastructure as foundations of national stability,” he said
The minister commended the air chief for his visionary leadership and prudent use of resources, urging personnel who would occupy the facility to maintain it with discipline, patriotism, and responsibility.
In his remarks, Abubakar said the four-storey structure was initially conceived as a hotel and later acquired by the NAF in an unfinished state before being remodeled and completed within one year by NAF engineers and works personnel.
Abubakar said the project exemplified his command philosophy of transforming the NAF into an agile and resilient force through improved welfare, infrastructural renewal, and effective resource management.
He disclosed that over 574 infrastructural projects had been initiated across NAF formations, with 412 completed and 162 ongoing, in line with efforts to boost morale and operational readiness.
Earlier, the Chief of Administration, NAF, AVM Idi Sani, said the new complex was designed to decongest the main headquarters and enhance administrative efficiency, synergy, and productivity.
He described the edifice as more than just a structure, but “a symbol of the Nigerian Air Force’s enduring commitment to excellence and service to the nation.”
The event was attended by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; senior military officers, retired Service Chiefs, members of the National Assembly and other dignitaries.
