By Chioma Favour
Former Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao (Rtd.), has underscored unity and high morale as indispensable foundations for operational effectiveness in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). He made the remarks at the Base Social Activities (BASA) 2025 held in Abuja on Saturday, 7 February 2026.
BASA 2025 brought together NAF personnel, their families, and key stakeholders in a colourful display of culture, camaraderie, and shared identity. The event featured cultural performances and social interactions that celebrated service and strengthened bonds within the Air Force community. Details of the event were contained in an official statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour, Air Marshal Amao (Rtd.) commended the NAF for sustaining BASA as a defining element of its institutional culture. He noted that beyond its celebratory nature, the initiative serves as a strategic platform for fostering cohesion among personnel drawn from Nigeria’s diverse backgrounds a cohesion he described as vital to building a resilient and effective fighting force.
The former Air Chief also praised the leadership of the current Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, noting that BASA has, under his stewardship, evolved into a symbol of unity and purpose within the Service. He stated that the event demonstrates how morale and unity directly support operational excellence.
Reflecting on the vibrant cultural displays at the event, Amao said they symbolised a nation united in service. He emphasized that such spirit cannot be enforced by regulation but is cultivated through shared experiences that promote trust, esprit de corps, and psychological resilience required for demanding military operations.
Air Marshal Amao further lauded the Nigerian Air Force for its operational achievements in 2025 across various theatres, attributing part of its success to the morale and unity reinforced through initiatives like BASA. He stressed the importance of sustaining this bond as the Service continues to address evolving security challenges nationwide.
In his welcome address, the Commander, Base Services Group, Abuja, Air Commodore I.E. Imoke, welcomed guests, personnel, and their families, describing BASA as a unifying platform that promotes welfare, camaraderie, and shared values within the NAF community. He noted that the event strengthens relationships beyond the workplace and renews commitment to the Service’s mission.
BASA 2025 ended on a note of pride and optimism, reinforcing the belief that a united force remains a strong force. The event reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to nurturing unity, mutual respect, and shared purpose as key drivers of its operational strength.
