Air Force Decorates Spokesman Akinboyewa as AVM, Promotes 18 Senior Officers

Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Tuesday decorated its Director of Public Relations and Information, Olusola Akinboyewa, with the rank of Air Vice Marshal (AVM).

Akinboyewa, who assumed office in October, was honored alongside 18 other senior officers promoted to the same rank.

The decoration ceremony, held in Abuja, was presided over by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, who was joined by Akinboyewa’s wife, Mrs. Akinboyewa.

Additionally, 33 Group Captains were promoted and decorated with the rank of Air Commodore, further strengthening the leadership cadre of the NAF.

The event featured the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, represented by his Deputy, Ben Kalu, as the special guest of honor. Other notable attendees included the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Kana; senior military officers; and families of the newly promoted officers.

In his remarks, Kalu commended the NAF for its professionalism, courage, and steadfast dedication to safeguarding the nation. He emphasized the importance of celebrating officers who distinguish themselves in their service.

“Today, we celebrate these officers for their hard work, professionalism, and the sacrifices they make to protect lives and property. Their dedication ensures that Nigerians sleep peacefully at night,” Kalu said.

He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his recent recognition of the armed forces during a national media engagement, highlighting the administration’s efforts to enhance security and preserve the nation’s integrity.

Air Marshal Abubakar congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing their elevation as a call to higher responsibility.

“Your promotion is not just a reward but a mandate to demonstrate greater determination, selfless service, and commitment to excellence,” he stated. He urged other personnel aspiring for promotion to remain dedicated, assuring them that hard work would always be rewarded.