The Nigerian Air Force has promoted four of its senior officers to the rank of Group Captains to Air Commodore as the promoted officers commenced their retirement from service.
Those honoured were John Opara, Okechukwu Okoye, David Ahmadu, and Tahir Bin-Isah, all were promoted from Group Captains to Air Commodores.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar said getting promoted outside the dedicated timeline for the exercise was a result of their contributions to the service and the nation.
A statement by the service’s Director of Public Relations and Information, AVM Edward Gabkwet added that Abubakar commended them for their dedication to the service.
Gabkwet said, “Four Group Captains were bestowed with special promotion to the exalted rank of Air Commodore for exhibiting unparalleled dedication and loyalty to the Service.
“The officers, who will also commence their retirement from the NAF forthwith, were decorated with their new ranks in the full glare of their families, friends and colleagues by the Chief of the Air Staff.
“The promotion of these officers, conducted outside the typical promotion timeline, showcased the profound contributions they have made to both the NAF and the nation. In his remarks at the event, the CAS commended the officers, noting their extraordinary dedication and the significant impact they have had on the NAF. “
Abubakar said despite Opara’s difficulties in getting promotions, he remained committed to the job.
He said, “Among those honoured was Air Commodore John Azubuike Opara, who was celebrated for his outstanding performance as an astute administration officer.
“Speaking specifically about Air Commodore Opara, Air Marshal Abubakar stated that despite earlier challenges he faced in his promotion journey, his unwavering dedication and significant contributions were recognized, affirming the belief that delay is not denial. “
Abubakar Okoye, Ahmadu and Bin-Isah fostered unity and mutual respect across different faiths within and outside the service.
He said, “The ceremony also highlighted the careers of two NAF Chaplains and Imam, Air Commodores Okechukwu Godson Okoye, David Ajar Ahmadu, and Tahir Bin-Isah.
“These gentlemen, according to the CAS, were responsible for fostering unity and mutual respect across different faiths within and outside the Service, and their commitment to the emotional and spiritual well-being of NAF personnel was acknowledged as a cornerstone of NAF’s moral strength.”
Abubakar assured them that their legacies would be sustained.
“As you embark on this new chapter of your lives, know that your legacies will endure. The lives you have touched and the positive impacts you have made will continue to resonate within our Air Force family,” he said.
The CAS also acknowledged the invaluable support of their spouses, families, and friends whose unwavering love, patience, and encouragement had been crucial to the success of the officers’ careers.
He then urged them to remember that their sacrifices have been recognized and their contributions deeply cherished, even as they transition into retirement.
Earlier, the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Idi Sani noted that the four officers had undergone thorough and rigorous scrutiny and had been found worthy both in character and professionalism to have been promoted by the Air Force Council to substantive Air Commodores.
Sani then disclosed that the promoted officers’ dedication and contributions to the NAF and the nation were highlighted as key factors in their advancement.