Air Chief Advocates Revival of Mentorship Culture in NAF
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has called for a revival of the mentorship culture within the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in order to further enhance discipline, regimentation, professionalism, and efficient service delivery.
He spoke at a Retreat for Air Warrant Officers (AWOs) and Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs) today, in Abuja.
Air Marshal Abubakar expressed concern over the observed decline in mentoring within the Non-Commissioned Officers’ (NCO) cadre over the years.
In a release by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore, Edward Gabkwet.
Abubakar urged AWOs and RSMs to take the lead in reviving this important practice, adding that their vast experience and knowledge can be invaluable to younger airmen and airwomen.
The CAS also reminded AWOs and RSMs of their critical role as the link between the Officers’ Cadre and the Other Ranks.
He emphasized the importance of impartiality in the discharge of their responsibilities, stating that they must serve as fair and just representatives of both sides.
Air Marshal Abubakar also highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards of discipline within the NAF.
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Abubakar noted that “AWOs and RSMs have a particular responsibility to ensure that airmen and airwomen under their commands remain disciplined in the discharge of their duties.”
CAS also addressed the upward trend of indiscipline being exacerbated through drug abuse, offenses related to sentry duties, and cases of Absence Without Leave (AWOL) across various units.
He called for a cessation of this trend and identified the crucial role AWOs and RSMs could play in checkmating it.
Air Marshal Abubakar urged AWOs and RSMs to establish mechanisms for constant interaction with their subordinates to address personal and service-related issues.
He also emphasized the need for them to take ownership of service properties with the same passion and care as personal items.
On safety, the CAS stated that the outcome of the recently held 2023 Safety Review Board (SRB) can only be realizable if all personnel take ownership of the safety of operational and personal environment.
He then emphasized the need for a relentless pursuit and internalization of safety culture among airmen and airwomen, noting that personnel must consistently adhere to all safety standards and regulations to prevent mishaps in various operations as well as preventing fire hazards within barracks.
The Retreat also included briefs by AWOs and RSMs on activities in their various Areas of Responsibility.
