NAF Hosts Nationwide Parley to Honour Veterans’ Courage, Sacrifice

NAF Hosts Nationwide Parley to Honour Veterans’ Courage, Sacrifice

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), on Saturday, hosted a historic nationwide Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Veterans’ Parley to reconnect with its retired personnel and honour their decades of courageous service to the nation.

The event, which took place simultaneously across all NAF Commands and units, was organised on the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, as part of efforts to reinforce institutional bonds, celebrate the legacy of veterans, and address post-service welfare challenges.

Describing the gathering as more than a symbolic gesture, the CAS in a special nationwide address to the veterans, stated: “This is a national call to remembrance, reflection, and reconnection. Your contributions matter—yesterday, today, and always. You are living embodiments of courage and commitment.”

Air Marshal Abubakar further assured the retirees of renewed focus on their well-being. “We are determined to ensure that you are not only remembered but continuously supported. This is your home, and your voice will always count,” he said.

The parley saw hundreds of retired officers and airmen reunited with serving personnel. In locations like Kaduna, Calabar, Port Harcourt, Bauchi, and Bayelsa, veterans shared memories from past operations, paid tributes to fallen colleagues, and engaged in open dialogue on their current challenges, especially relating to healthcare and pensions.

Retired Master Warrant Officer Apreala Edmund, who attended the parley in Bayelsa, said, “We never asked for thanks, but today, we feel seen. This gesture reminds us that our service mattered—and still does.”

Another veteran at the Kano venue described the experience as “a humbling reminder of the legacy we once risked everything for.”

The NAF said the event is part of an ongoing reform agenda to institutionalise the recognition and care of veterans who served with distinction. “Across the country, the message was clear: the Nigerian Air Force remains one united family,” the service said.

According to the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the parley blended emotion with purpose and reaffirmed the service’s appreciation for its past heroes.

“This engagement is not a one-off event,” Ejodame noted. “It is a reaffirmation of the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to its veterans. As we chart a future defined bye innovation and excellence, we do so with gratitude to those who built the foundation.”

Ejodame further stated that the Air Chief remains focused on people-centric reforms that elevate welfare, professionalism, and heritage at all levels of the Force.

The Veterans’ Parley is now expected to become a recurring feature in the NAF’s calendar, serving as a bridge between generations of airmen united in service and sacrifice.

By PRNigeria