The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has graduated 111 personnel from Special Forces Course 13/2026 as part of ongoing efforts to enhance its operational effectiveness and strengthen support for air and joint military operations across the country.
The development was disclosed on Sunday by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, who said the graduation ceremony took place at the Regiment Training Centre Annex (RTCA) in Bauchi.
According to him, the event marked the successful completion of an intensive training programme designed to produce highly skilled, combat-ready and mission-focused operators capable of responding to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, was represented at the ceremony by Air Vice Marshal AY Dari.
Addressing the newly graduated personnel, the Chief of the Air Staff congratulated them for successfully completing one of the Air Force’s most demanding training programmes and urged them to maintain professionalism, discipline and courage in the discharge of their duties.
“The strength of any fighting force lies not only in its equipment but in the quality, discipline and determination of its personnel.
“You are now part of an elite cadre entrusted with critical responsibilities in safeguarding our nation. Serve with honour, remain mission-focused and let your actions reflect the values of the Nigerian Air Force,” he said.
The Special Forces course was structured to provide participants with advanced tactical knowledge, specialist skills and the operational resilience required to execute missions in complex and dynamic environments.
Throughout the training period, participants underwent rigorous physical, mental and tactical exercises aimed at improving leadership qualities, teamwork, adaptability and mission effectiveness in support of both air and joint military operations.
Earlier, the Commandant of the Regiment Training Centre Annex, Squadron Leader EL Akpan, commended the Air Force leadership for its continued support for Special Forces training and capacity development.
He reaffirmed the centre’s commitment to producing resilient and highly competent operators capable of carrying out specialised assignments across diverse operational theatres.
The graduation of the 111 Special Forces operators represents another milestone in the Nigerian Air Force’s efforts to invest in human capital development and operational excellence.
NAF noted that sustained investment in elite training remains critical to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty, supporting national security objectives and contributing to long-term peace and stability across the country.
The Air Force added that the programme reflects its commitment to building a highly professional, motivated and combat-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in collaboration with ground forces while protecting lives and property.
Among those present at the ceremony were Air Vice Marshal AG Kehinde, Air Vice Marshal A Idris, represented by Air Commodore Y Bashir, as well as Air Commodore Olayera, senior military officers, representatives of sister security agencies and invited guests.
A major highlight of the event was a series of tactical demonstrations by the graduating personnel. The exercises included obstacle-crossing drills, commando self-defence techniques and air assault operations, showcasing the operational competence, teamwork, endurance and combat skills acquired during the course.
