In a landmark achievement for gender inclusion and military reform, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially absorbed its first cohort of female graduates from the Air Force Girls’ Military School (AFGMS)—known as Ex-Junior Air Women (Ex-JAWs)—into its ranks as Airwomen.
According to Director of Public Relations and Information Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the historic development follows a bold revision of the NAF’s Absorption Policy, which previously applied solely to male graduates of the Air Force Military School (AFMS), known as Ex-Junior Air Men (Ex-JAMs). The expanded policy now grants Ex-JAWs the same direct entry pathway into the service, marking a major step forward for gender equality in the armed forces.
The Class of 2017 from AFGMS, who completed their secondary education in August 2023, became the first beneficiaries. After successfully passing a rigorous selection process, they underwent military training at NAF Base Kaduna in 2024. Having completed the programme, they have now officially joined the Nigerian Air Force as full-fledged Airwomen.
Describing the development as a “moment of triumph,” Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, hailed the move as a milestone in the NAF’s commitment to empowering young women through equal opportunities.
“This is a moment of triumph for every girl who has ever dreamed of wearing the uniform,” said Air Marshal Abubakar. “It reflects our commitment to inclusivity and the creation of a professional, balanced force.”
He added that over the last 39 years, AFGMS has produced more than 3,500 graduates, many of whom have gone on to excel in the military, public service, academia, and the private sector. The induction of Ex-JAWs now opens further opportunities for these graduates to serve as Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) in the Nigerian Air Force.
Beyond military service, the revised policy also offers Ex-JAWs access to the NAF’s extensive educational and professional development programmes, equipping them for long-term success in and out of uniform.
As these pioneering women don their uniforms, they bring with them not only the values of discipline and leadership fostered at AFGMS but also a powerful message: gender is no barrier to excellence, service, or national contribution.
