By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to youth development, discipline, and academic excellence, describing the future of the nation as rooted in the strength and quality of its human capital. He made this known at the Joint Passing Out Parade of the Air Force Military School (AFMS) and the Air Force Girls Military School (AFGMS) held in Jos, Plateau State.
The ceremony, which also commemorated the 45th anniversary of AFMS, was a significant milestone that Air Marshal Abubakar described as “a testament to the vision, resilience, and impact of this great institution.” The event was witnessed by senior military officers, parents, family members, alumni, and well-wishers, and featured vibrant parades and precision drills by the graduating students that drew thunderous applause from the crowd.
According to a statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Chief, who once served as an instructor at AFMS nearly three decades ago, expressed immense pride in returning as the leader of the Nigerian Air Force. “That experience shaped my perspective on youth development, discipline, and the role of military-style education in grooming future leaders,” he said. “These values remain just as relevant today as they were in the past.”
Since its establishment in 1980, AFMS has graduated more than 6,200 students who have gone on to excel in various fields including the military, academia, public service, and industry both within and outside Nigeria. The CAS praised the AFMS Alumni Association for their unwavering commitment to the school, citing their numerous projects in support of its growth and legacy. “The AFMS Alumni Association has executed numerous impactful projects in support of the school, a noble gesture that speaks volumes about their enduring commitment to service and legacy,” he noted.
Air Marshal Abubakar further highlighted the expanding reputation of NAF schools across Nigeria, stating that the Nigerian Air Force’s primary and secondary institutions are among the most competitive and sought-after in the country. “This is not a coincidence but the result of carefully implemented policies to ensure the highest standards,” he said.
He announced the recent establishment of new NAF schools in Abuja, Igbara-Oke, and Kaduna, and revealed ongoing efforts to integrate all schools owned by the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) into a unified educational system. He also disclosed that renovation projects are being executed across several NAF institutions, with AFMS specifically set to benefit from major infrastructure upgrades, including improved feeding systems and access to clean water.
In a major policy move, the CAS announced the revival of the programme to absorb Ex-Junior Airmen and Airwomen (Ex-JAM and Ex-JAW) into the Nigerian Air Force. The initiative provides a direct entry pathway for outstanding graduates of AFMS and AFGMS into military service, following further basic training. “This initiative strengthens our human capital base and preserves the military ethos instilled in these young boys and girls,” he said.
Turning to the graduating students, Air Marshal Abubakar commended their turnout, discipline, and outstanding performance in their drill displays. “You are the future of Nigeria,” he declared. “Lead with purpose, serve with dignity, and never stop learning.”
The Air Chief also expressed gratitude to the leadership, staff, instructors, and teaching personnel of both AFMS and AFGMS for their steadfast commitment to raising the next generation of Nigerian leaders. “Your commitment has not gone unnoticed,” he stated.
In his closing remarks, Air Marshal Abubakar praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support towards youth development and military education. “Under his visionary leadership, we have witnessed renewed vigour in the pursuit of excellence across all sectors, including education,” he said. “The greatness of any nation,” the CAS concluded, “lies not only in its weapons but in the quality of its people.”
The colourful event climaxed with a series of breathtaking parades and a file past by the graduating class, which evoked pride and emotion among the gathered audience. The strong turnout by parents, families, alumni groups such as Ex-JAM and Ex-JAW, and other supporters added to the celebratory and symbolic atmosphere, reinforcing the enduring legacy of AFMS and AFGMS as institutions that continue to inspire hope, discipline, and leadership in a new generation of Nigerians.
