The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has advocated for a proactive security measures to secure Nigerian Air force (NAF) based and facilities nationwide.
This he said would not ensure safety of personnel but crucial for national security.
“I recognize the immense importance of ensuring the safety and efficiency of our air bases, not only for the defense of our nation, but also for the protection of our personnel and assets, ” he said.
The CAS who was represented by the Chief of Aircraft Engineering, AVM Pius Oahimire, stated this Thursday at a one-day Air base construction and security workshop in Abuja.
The theme of the workshop is “Optimizing Air base Security through Cost-Effective Construction Project Management for the Nigerian Airforce.”
He said the workshop marks a significant milestone in NAF’s efforts to enhance the security posture of it air bases while also optimizing resources.
According to him, in an era where security threats are dynamic and multifaceted, it is imperative for the NAF adopt a proactive approach to safeguarding its installations, facilities and platforms.
He however, said this must be done in a manner that is both cost effective and sustainable.
“Our goal is not merely to secure our air business, but to do so in a manner that is efficient, sustainable and cost effective
“Mindful of the budgetary constraints that we face, the emplacement of physical security measures present us with a unique challenge. How do we achieve maximum security with minimal resources? The answer lies in innovation, collaboration and strategic planning.
“We must leverage the latest advancement in security technology to bolster our defenses while also exploring creative solutions that offer the greatest value for money.
“Moreover, collaboration between various stakeholders, including engineers, security experts and project managers, is essential to ensure that our efforts are coordinated and in synergy,” he said.
According to him, for this to be achieved, professionalism should serve as our guiding principle, compelling us to consistently deliver our best efforts wherever our responsibilities take us.
Speaking further, Air Marshal Abubakar said implementation of decisions reached at previous workshops has led to zero failed projects across NAF bases nationwide.
“The gathering is a sequel to a previous workshop on project and site management where we laid the foundation for effective project execution, coupled also with the logistic instruction that was released last year that talked on material specifications and building with infrastructural maintenance.
“I’m glad to note with these two we are glad to note that it has so far paid off and we have witnessed improved project execution. And I must say to this audience, we have close to zero failed projects so far.”
He charged participants to approach the workshop with the spirit of collaboration.
“Feel free to share your experiences. Let’s learn from one another and forge partnership that will endure beyond the conference of this gathering.
“Together we can overcome any challenge and ensure that our airbases remain bastion of security and strength,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, Air Vice Marshal Babatunde Phillips, the coordinator of Project Implementation Management Team headquarters NAF , said the workshop represents a continuation of NAF’s efforts to foster excellence in project management and security implementation.
He said building upon the foundations laid in previous workshops on project and site management, this workshop represents NAF’s resolve to foster excellence in project management. And security within Nigerian Air Force bases.
