Every Hazard Reported Helps Prevent Future Mishaps – Chief Of Air Staff Drives Proactive Safety Culture In Nigerian Air Force

Every Hazard Reported Helps Prevent Future Mishaps – Chief Of Air Staff Drives Proactive Safety Culture In Nigerian Air Force

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) commitment to building a proactive safety culture as a critical enabler of mission success and operational excellence. Speaking at the opening of the First Nigerian Air Force Safety Review Board (SRB) Meeting for Year 2026, on 30 June 2026, the CAS emphasised that safety must remain central to planning, decision-making and mission execution, noting that a professional and mission-ready force can only be sustained through uncompromising adherence to safety standards. He also explained that the expansion of the Safety Review Board meeting to a two-day event reflects the NAF’s resolve to undertake more comprehensive reviews and develop practical solutions that enhance operational effectiveness.

Air Marshal Aneke commended commanders and safety personnel across the Service for promoting safety awareness and implementing preventive measures but stressed the need for greater focus on risk assessment, procedural compliance, maintenance discipline, supervision and human factors management. He further underscored the importance of the NAF’s “Safety Just Culture,” encouraging personnel to report hazards, near misses and safety concerns without fear of sanctions. According to the CAS, every hazard reported provides valuable lessons that strengthen the Service’s safety architecture, protect lives and assets, and help prevent future mishaps.

The Safety Review Board is expected to generate actionable recommendations that will further strengthen the NAF Safety Management System, enhance operational readiness and sustain combat capability across all theatres of operation. The meeting reinforces the Chief of the Air Staff’s command philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in defence of Nigeria, while ensuring that safety remains a cornerstone of operational success.