The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has graduated 1,296 recruits at the passing-out parade of Basic Military Training Course (BMTC) 45/2025 to strengthen its mission-ready force in support of ongoing counter-terrorism operations.

This is contained in a statement by the NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Saturday in Abuja.

In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described the ceremony as a defining milestone for both the graduates and the service.

Mr Aneke said the operational effectiveness of the NAF was fundamentally anchored on the quality, discipline, and professionalism of its personnel.

According to him, the successful completion of the six-month training programme aligned squarely with his command philosophy of enhancing and sustaining a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces to realise national security objectives.

He emphasised that the graduation reflects the NAF’s deliberate and pragmatic efforts to build capable manpower in fulfilment of its constitutional mandate, particularly in support of ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations nationwide.

The CAS underscored the strategic importance of the Military Training Centre in shaping disciplined, professional, and mission-ready personnel.

He stated that the institution remained a critical driver of the command philosophy and an enabler of standardised training and mission-focused capability development.

Mr Aneke commended the commandant, instructors, and staff for maintaining high standards throughout the course.

The CAS said the demanding nature of the training, physically, mentally, and collectively, was intentional and necessary to prepare them for the realities of military service.

He charged the new airmen and airwomen to consistently uphold discipline, teamwork, and duty throughout their careers.

Mr Aneke assured the recruits of NAF’s sustained investment in training and welfare to enhance mission effectiveness.

The highlights of the ceremony included a precision parade by the graduating recruits and the presentation of awards to outstanding performers, with C-130 Squadron emerging as the Champion Squadron.

The event attracted senior government officials, traditional rulers, military leaders, families, and well-wishers.

(NAN)