The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has graduated 1,296 recruits following the successful completion of Basic Military Training Course (BMTC) 45/2025, as part of efforts to strengthen its mission-ready manpower for national security operations.
In statement Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the Passing Out Parade, held on December 20, 2025, marked the formal transition of the recruits from civilian life into trained airmen and airwomen of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Reviewing the parade, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the event as a defining milestone for both the graduates and the Service.
Air Marshal Aneke said the operational effectiveness of the NAF is firmly anchored on the quality, discipline, and professionalism of its personnel, noting that the successful completion of the six-month training programme aligns with his Command Philosophy of building and sustaining a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces to achieve national security objectives.
He explained that the graduation reflects the NAF’s deliberate and pragmatic approach to manpower development in fulfilment of its constitutional mandate, particularly in support of ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations across the country.
The CAS highlighted the strategic role of the Military Training Centre, which he described as the cradle of military excellence in the Nigerian Air Force, in shaping disciplined and professional personnel. He commended the Commandant, instructors, and staff for maintaining high training standards, stressing that discipline instilled during training translates directly into professionalism and operational effectiveness in the field. He also praised the Air Officer Commanding Ground Training Command, Air Vice Marshal Shinkafi, for effective oversight of the institution.
Addressing the graduating recruits, Air Marshal Aneke noted that the physically and mentally demanding nature of the training was deliberate and necessary to prepare them for the realities of military service. He reminded them that their transformation from civilians into members of the Armed Forces was achieved through a structured and rigorous process, and urged them to uphold discipline, teamwork, and a strong sense of duty throughout their careers. He also expressed appreciation to their families for the support that contributed to their success.
The CAS further observed that the new airmen and airwomen are joining the Service at a time of complex security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, and other asymmetric threats. He stressed that the NAF continues to play a decisive role through combat air operations, combat support missions, and other covert and overt activities, which require adaptability, continuous learning, and professionalism, especially as the Service operates increasingly sophisticated platforms. He assured the graduates of the NAF’s sustained investment in training and welfare to enhance mission effectiveness.
Air Marshal Aneke thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continued support to the Nigerian Air Force, and expressed appreciation to the Kaduna State Government, represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, as well as sister Services, security agencies, and partner institutions supporting NAF training efforts.
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 was attended by senior government officials, traditional rulers, military leaders, families, and well-wishers.
