Abuja: The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has emphasized the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) commitment to enhancing operational efficiency through improved physical and mental fitness management. Represented by the Chief of Administration, AVM Idi Sani, Abubakar made this clear during the inaugural Directorate of Sports and Physical Education Officers’ and Supervisors’ workshop in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the workshop, themed ‘Enhancing Fitness Management Activities to Improve Operational Efficiency in the NAF,’ highlighted the importance of physical fitness as a critical factor in combat readiness. The CAS remarked that physical readiness is a force multiplier that sharpens mental alertness, improves endurance, reduces fatigue, and enhances performance under pressure.
Citing military strategist Carl von Clausewitz, Abubakar stated, “Strength of body is the foundation upon which the will to fight is built.” He linked the focus on fitness to one of the pillars of his Command Philosophy: ‘Deliberate Training and Mission-Oriented Force Development,’ emphasizing that investments in sports and physical training are crucial for a mission-ready force.
The air chief praised NAF athletes and coaches for their dedication and achievements in sports, urging them to maintain high standards of discipline and sportsmanship. He noted that as part of ongoing reforms, several bases, including 013 QRF Minna, 213 FOB Katsina, and NAF Base Enugu, have benefited from the construction and refurbishment of fitness facilities, with over 22 units receiving modern gym equipment.
Efforts are also underway to introduce archery clubs across various Commands and Direct Reporting Units to diversify fitness activities and boost participation. The CAS emphasized that physical fitness tests for all personnel are essential for operational success, which is measured not only by medals and trophies but also by the integrity, discipline, and values embodied by the personnel. He added that sports also play a role in strengthening civil-military relations.
Group Capt. Ademide Adeyeye, Director of Sports and Physical Education, commended the CAS for his visionary leadership and support for initiatives promoting personnel health and unity. He noted that the workshop serves as a strategic platform for dialogue, experience-sharing, and policy development in fitness and welfare, part of efforts to institutionalize a culture of health, agility, and resilience as central pillars of military professionalism.
The event gathered serving and retired senior officers, resource persons, and fitness management specialists for interactive sessions aimed at enhancing the implementation of fitness programs across the service.