The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has accelerated its commitment to advancing technical education as a cornerstone of its defence strategy. This was underscored by the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, during a graduation ceremony for 432 officers, airmen, and airwomen at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) in Kaduna on September 25, 2024.
Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted AFIT’s crucial role in equipping the NAF with the technical skills needed to defend Nigeria’s airspace and territory, noting that the graduates represent a key component of the NAF’s adaptive strategy in an ever-evolving security landscape.
“AFIT’s commitment to developing top-tier human capital equips graduates to tackle critical challenges, not only for Nigeria but also for allied African nations,” said the Air Marshal, underscoring the Institute’s hands-on, practical learning approach.
AFIT’s focus on technical proficiency aligns with the NAF’s fleet modernization efforts, reducing reliance on foreign training and conserving national resources. According to Abubakar, the technical expertise gained by graduates will be essential in maintaining airworthiness as the Air Force expands its fleet, which recently grew by 12 aircraft, with 50 more expected soon—a historic acquisition for the NAF.
Beyond fleet maintenance, Air Marshal Abubakar stressed the importance of predictive maintenance and local Research and Development (R&D), urging graduates to contribute to indigenous military manufacturing efforts.
The Air Force chief also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his consistent support of the NAF and the Armed Forces. He praised AFIT’s leadership, particularly its Governing Council, for steering the institution’s success.
Air Vice Marshal Sani Rabe, Commandant of AFIT, reiterated the Institute’s mission to provide high-quality technical and logistics training, while also expanding its capacity to meet the manpower demands of the NAF.
The graduation ceremony marked another milestone in AFIT’s legacy as a center of excellence since its inception in 1977. The event, attended by dignitaries and family members, symbolized the NAF’s ongoing efforts to enhance its defence capabilities through robust technical education.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equipping the Nigerian military. Speaking recently at the National Defence College, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, stressed the importance of strategic leadership in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges and promised continued support to ensure the armed forces remain well-resourced and capable of protecting the nation.
