NAF decorates 47 promoted officers in Gombe
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has decorated 47 newly promoted officers in the 109 Combat Reconnaissance Group (CRG) in Gombe. The promotions include 23 officers, five senior non-commissioned officers, and 19 non-commissioned officers.
Among those decorated was Warrant Officer Aliyu Jatau, who was promoted to Master Warrant Officer. The ceremony took place on Saturday during the maiden veterans’ parley and the second edition of the Base Annual Socio-Cultural Activities (BASA) 2024 at the NAF Base, Lawanti, Gombe.
Wing Commander Maxine Mokelu, the Commander of the 109 CRG, said that the promotions were in line with the Chief of Air Staff’s philosophy of maintaining a highly motivated force. He explained that the promotions followed a rigorous screening process to select the most deserving candidates.
Earlier, Mokelu spoke about the significance of the veterans’ parley, which serves as a platform for engaging with retired officers and recognising their contributions. He also discussed the importance of the BASA event, which celebrates cultural diversity and strengthens bonds among personnel and their families.
Retired Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Mu’azu expressed optimism about the collaboration between retired and serving personnel. He urged authorities to continue supporting such initiatives, which he believes will improve security and foster unity within the NAF.
Retired Master Warrant Officer Bagudu also commended the initiative and recommended that the Chief of Air Staff continue to implement the suggestions made during the parley to enhance the system.
Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Colonel Abdullahi Bello (retired), reaffirmed the government’s support for the NAF and promised to extend infrastructure development to the community. He also assured the public that the government would continue its efforts to provide security across the state.
Governor Yahaya praised Wing Commander Mokelu for his exemplary leadership and contribution to the state’s security efforts.
