Index to Nigerian Newspapers

The Nigerian Air Force has instituted a strict new policy issued by Air Vice Marshal A. H. Bakari requiring all officers and airmen seeking early retirement or discharge to submit written applications two years in advance, aiming to curb a severe exodus of personnel that threatens manpower, cohesion, and national security. The policy imposes penalties such as disqualification from promotions, professional courses, and foreign deployments during the two-year period, though it faces legal friction following a National Industrial Court ruling by Justice Olufunke Anuwe, who affirmed in a case involving medical doctor Elkanah John that voluntary resignation takes effect immediately upon notice. Meanwhile, serving and former personnel, including Umar AbdulHafiz, alongside military spokesmen like Olusola Akinboyewa, have highlighted severe discontent driving the resignations, citing systemic discrimination between regular and direct short service commission officers, unpaid lodging and posting allowances, poor housing, and leadership practices tracing back to former leadership under Amao and Sadique Abubakar.