In a strategic effort to enhance operational efficiency and logistics autonomy, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully reconfigured four pre-owned fuel tankers into specialised aircraft refuelling bowsers.
The initiative, carried out under the oversight of the 643 Equipment Supply Depot in Lagos, underscores the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, to entrench a proactive logistics framework, foster a strong maintenance culture, and promote innovation within the service.
According to a statement issued by NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the reconfigured fuel bowsers represent more than upgraded logistical assets. “They symbolise the NAF’s commitment to self-reliance, innovation, and adaptability in sustaining air operations,” the statement noted.
Air Marshal Abubakar emphasised that the refuelling assets are expected to play a pivotal role in ongoing military operations, especially counterterrorism campaigns and joint-force deployments across Nigeria. He noted that the enhanced refuelling capabilities will ensure rapid turnaround times, improved air presence, and sustained mission readiness in complex operational environments.
The reconfiguration of these tankers into airfield bowsers is part of broader reforms designed to reduce reliance on third-party logistics providers and improve the NAF’s capacity to support air operations independently.
This latest development reinforces the Air Force’s commitment to efficient resource management and operational innovation in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
