The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has told the newly graduated pilots of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), that earning their flying qualification was not just a personal achievement but a national responsibility.
Abubakar gave the charge during the combined graduation ceremony of the Basic Transport Flying Course 5 and Ab-initio Students’ Pilot Course 49, held on Friday at the 401 Flying Training School (FTS), Kaduna.
He said the graduation marked a significant milestone for the young pilots and the Nigerian Air Force.
Abubukar addressed the 35 new aviators, comprising 10 Basic Transport Course graduates and 25 Ab-initio Students’ Pilots.
He highlighted the importance of deliberate training and mission-oriented force development in transforming the Nigerian Air Force into an agile and resilient force.
Abubukar stated that the training institutions were being upgraded,adding, “more aircraft are being inducted, and operational doctrines are evolving to meet new threats.”
The CAS emphasised the critical role of the graduates in national development, particularly in defending the nation’s skies and contributing to humanitarian operations.
He urged them to remain disciplined, professional, and mission-focused, highlighting the challenges facing the nation and the importance of their role in addressing them.
Abubukar commended the flight instructors, training staff, Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, and the Commander 401 FTS for their dedication and efforts.
He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and support .
Abubukar reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to providing realistic and deliberate training, as well as mission-oriented force development.
Earlier, the Commander, 401 FTS, Air Commodore Nasir Saidu, said the school has a rich history of moulding young officers into skilled and professional aviators, upholding a tradition of excellence in military aviation for over 40 years.
Saidu said the young pilots have made significant progress, laying a strong foundation for their flying careers.
According to him, the Basic Transport Flying Course had equipped them with the skills and knowledge necessary for conducting air transport of personnel and materiel safely.
“The school remains committed to becoming a centre of excellence for military flying training, providing purposeful and effective training to actualize the Chief of the Air Staff’s command philosophy,” Saidu said.
He said the school had received significant enablement and boost in infrastructural development, contributing to the significant milestones being celebrated.
Saidu acknowledged the invaluable support and contributions of various stakeholders, including the Chief of Training and Operations, Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, and other units.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone in the careers of the young pilots, reflecting the school’s commitment to excellence and its appreciation for the support received.
NAN also reports that awards were given to students who distinguished themselves during the course.
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