Pulse.ng : Physical fitness cornerstone of NAF’s combat readiness

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says physical fitness remains the cornerstone of its troops’combat readiness.

According to NAF, it keeps its personnel in top form to effectively execute their assigned missions.

The Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Air Training Command(ATC), AVM Ahmed Dari, said this on Saturday in Kaduna at the ATC Headquarters 2025 10Km Walk and Jog exercise.

The AOC was represented by Commandant, Air Traffic Services Training Centre , AVM Nosiru Folaji .

The AOC said the energy, commitment, and determination etched on everyone’s faces demonstrated that their personnel were not only willing and able but also ready to carry out any task in defence of the nation.

Dari said, ” Today, we did not just complete a 10-kilometre walk/jog, we accomplished something far more profound.

“We celebrated health, fitness, and camaraderie—a wonderful affirmation of wellness and unity.”

The AOC said that the event highlighted the core strength of the command and the other NAF co-located units in Kaduna.

He added that it served as a reminder that whether on training grounds, in planning rooms, or on the road, NAF’s personnel can always achieve their goals when they move forward together.

Dari added, “Moreover, it lays the foundation for good health and physical well-being.”

He said the NAF was committed to ensuring that its personnel remained mentally and physically prepared at all times, ready to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

According to him, the event is an integral part of the NAF’s ‘Calendar of Events’, aimed at fostering the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and enhancing personnel mental and physical fitness.

He stated, “This aligns perfectly with the Chief of Air Staff’s Command Philosophy, focusing on ‘optimising force structure for enhanced operational effectiveness’ and deliberate, mission-oriented force development.”

The AOC commended the participants for successfully completing the exercise.

Dari said, “Your discipline and resolve reflect the professionalism that defines the Nigerian Air Force.

” You have stepped out, pushed yourselves, and prioritised your well-being, an investment in both your personal lives and in the operational readiness of HQ ATC and the NAF.”

He appreciated NAFOWA, NYSC members, and the Base youths for their wonderful participation.

Dari also lauded the organisers for their tireless efforts in making the event a success, and congratulated the winners in various categories of the event.

“I urge you not to let the energy generated fade away. Let it serve as a catalyst for your personal and professional growth, ” he appealed.

The AOC urged that the discipline demonstrated during the exercise should translate into excellence in their duties, admonishing, “remember, fitness is a journey, not just a single 10km event.

“I encourage you to maintain this momentum and make physical wellness a consistent priority.