Fiscal discipline key to enhancing national security — Air Chief

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Hasan Bala Abubakar, has reiterated that fiscal discipline and accountability are crucial for maintaining Nigeria’s national security and operational effectiveness.

During the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Finance Conference and Retreat 2025, held at the NAF School of Finance and Accounts (NAFSFA) in Ajia-Ibadan, Abubakar highlighted the significance of careful resource management, labeling it as both a moral obligation and essential for keeping forces prepared, training personnel, and carrying out operations without financial limitations.

He praised the Accounts and Budget Branch for organizing the retreat, which was centered on the theme “Sustainable Resource Management for Effective Air Power Delivery,” and acknowledged its relevance in promoting innovation and sharing knowledge.

The Air Chief further emphasised that transparency, accountability, and effective budgeting are indispensable for sustaining airpower capabilities, stressing that a disciplined financial culture within the NAF will ensure scarce resources deliver maximum impact on national defence.

Bala also recalled the commissioning of NAFSFA earlier in the year, describing its role as both a professional training hub for finance officers and a national resource centre.

He further showed appreciation to the Government and people of Oyo State for their consistent support, particularly the Governor, Seyi Makinde’s approval of the dualisation of the access road to the NAF Base in Ajia, which he described as a gesture symbolising an enduring partnership between the State and the Air Force.

Delivering the important address, the Director General of the Budget Office of the Federation, represented by his Special Adviser, Samuel Omenka, stressed the need for resource optimisation amidst competing national demands.

Also speaking, the Chief of Accounts and Budget, Uche Nwagwu, emphasised the critical responsibility of finance officers in safeguarding NAF’s credibility and ensuring every naira directly translates into operational capability.

Dignitaries present included the Head of Service of Oyo State, Olubumi Oni, the Accountant General of Oyo State, Kike Adegoke FCA; senior NAF officers, and other stakeholders. Participants also witnessed the commissioning of the NAF Finance Specialty Hall of Fame.