By Lawrence Audu
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar has highlighted the critical role of mentorship within the NAF, emphasizing the need for knowledge, skills, and experience sharing among AWOs, RSMs, and other Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs).
He expressed concern over the declining practice of mentoring within the Non-Commissioned Officers’ (NCO) cadre and urged AWOs and RSMs to revive the culture of mentorship within their units.
Abubakar gave the remarks Thursday, at a retreat for Air Warrant Officers (AWOs) and Regimental Sergeant Majors (RSMs) from various units across Nigeria.
The event aimed to strengthen discipline, professionalism, and efficient service delivery within the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
The CAS also reminded AWOs and RSMs of their vital position as the link between the Officers’ Cadre and the Other Ranks, stressing the importance of impartiality in carrying out their responsibilities.
The discussions at the Retreat encompassed not only mentorship but also the significance of maintaining a strong discipline, regimentation, and safety culture within the NAF. Air Marshal Abubakar’s leadership in this initiative underscores the NAF’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and continual improvement.
Speaking further, the CAS emphasized the critical role of AWOs and RSMs in maintaining and upholding high standards of discipline within the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). He stressed that it is the responsibility of AWOs and RSMs to ensure that airmen and airwomen under their commands remain disciplined in the execution of their duties.
Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the concerning increase in indiscipline, particularly exacerbated by issues such as drug abuse, offenses related to sentry duties, and cases of Absence Without Leave (AWOL) across various units. He called for an end to this trend and identified the pivotal role AWOs and RSMs could play in curbing it. The CAS urged them to establish mechanisms for regular interaction with their subordinates to address both personal and service-related issues.
Furthermore, the CAS emphasized the need for AWOs and RSMs to take ownership of service properties with the same passion and care as they would their personal items. He stressed the importance of regular cleaning, sanitation, and maintenance of NAF buildings, hangars, and operational facilities, highlighting the role AWOs and RSMs can play in promoting a robust maintenance culture within their units.
Regarding safety, the CAS underscored that the outcomes of the 2023 Safety Review Board (SRB) can only be realized if all personnel take ownership of the safety of their operational and personal environment. He emphasized the need for a steadfast pursuit and internalization of a safety culture among airmen and airwomen, noting that personnel must consistently adhere to all safety protocols.
