By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on 13 November 2025 achieved another major milestone in its modernization and technology integration drive with the graduation and winging of nine newly trained Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operators under Course 4 Batch B. The event, held at the 401 Flying Training School (401 FTS), Kaduna, underscores NAF’s growing commitment to smarter, technology-driven, and precision-led warfare aimed at safeguarding lives and securing the nation.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the ceremony represents a significant stride in the Service’s ongoing transformation towards enhanced operational efficiency and precision airpower delivery.
Representing the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Yusuf Dari, congratulated the graduating officers for successfully completing the rigorous and highly technical training programme. The CAS, in his remarks, described the ceremony as “a proud milestone for the Service,” emphasizing that the newly winged UAV operators now carry the sacred duty of defending Nigeria’s skies with precision, discipline, and honour.
“The unmanned aerial vehicles you will be operating are more than just machines of technology; they are strategic assets for protection, surveillance, and, when necessary, precision response,” the CAS stated. “Operate with professionalism, execute with precision, and serve with honour. Let every mission you undertake reflect our enduring values of discipline, service, and patriotism.”
Air Marshal Aneke highlighted that this milestone comes at a critical time when Nigeria continues to confront diverse and evolving security challenges from insurgents, terrorists, and organized criminal networks. He noted that UAVs have become indispensable in modern warfare, providing real-time intelligence, enhancing situational awareness, and supporting precision engagements across multiple theatres of operation.
The CAS commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support and sustained investment in building a modern, agile, and technology-driven Air Force. “The Federal Government’s commitment to upgrading our air capabilities demonstrates a clear understanding that in today’s battlespace, precision—not brute force—defines victory,” he affirmed.
He further commended the Commander, 401 Flying Training School, Air Commodore Nasiru Mohammed Saidu, for his exemplary leadership and dedication to excellence in training, noting that the School continues to uphold NAF’s reputation for professionalism, innovation, and operational efficiency.
Earlier in his remarks, Air Commodore Saidu lauded the resilience, focus, and commitment of the graduating UAV operators, describing them as “a new generation of airmen ready to transform Nigeria’s aerial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.” He explained that the comprehensive training had equipped them with the skills required to conduct critical missions in intelligence gathering, reconnaissance, and precision engagement to support joint operations.
“This moment is not just about the wings you wear,” he told the graduates. “It symbolizes vision, responsibility, and service. You are now the sharp edge of a smarter, stronger, and more strategic Nigerian Air Force.”
Under the visionary leadership of Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the NAF continues to expand its operational capabilities through advanced training, strategic innovation, and the integration of modern technology. The graduation of these UAV operators reaffirms the Service’s unwavering commitment to delivering precision airpower for national security and the protection of Nigerian lives.
As these new air warriors take to the skies, they embody the NAF’s transformation—flying smarter, saving lives, and defending the nation with honour.
admin