By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Thursday, 13 November 2025, marked another landmark in its modernization and technology-driven warfare initiative with the graduation and winging of nine newly trained Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operators under Course 4 Batch B at the 401 Flying Training School (401 FTS), Kaduna. The milestone, described as a major step in advancing smarter and precision-led operations, underscores NAF’s commitment to safeguarding lives and securing Nigeria’s territorial integrity through innovation and professionalism.
In an official statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed that the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, was represented at the ceremony by the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Yusuf Dari.
Addressing the graduates, the CAS congratulated them for successfully completing what he called “a rigorous and highly technical training programme,” describing the winging ceremony as “a proud milestone for the Service.” He noted that the newly winged UAV operators now bear the noble responsibility of defending Nigeria’s airspace with precision, discipline, and honour.
“The unmanned aerial vehicles you will be operating are not merely technological marvels; they are instruments of protection, surveillance, and, when necessary, precision response,” the CAS said. “Operate with professionalism, execute with precision, and serve with honour. Every mission you undertake must reflect our core values of discipline, service, and patriotism.”
Air Marshal Aneke highlighted that the graduation comes at a time when Nigeria faces increasingly complex security threats from insurgents, terrorists, and organized criminal networks. He stressed that UAVs have become indispensable in modern warfare, providing real-time intelligence, enhancing situational awareness, and supporting precision engagements across multiple theatres of operation.
The Air Chief commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support and investment in building an agile, capable, and technology-driven Air Force. “The Federal Government’s commitment to modernizing our air capabilities reflects a clear understanding that in today’s battlespace, precision, not brute force, defines success,” he stated.
He also lauded the Commander, 401 Flying Training School, Air Commodore Nasiru Mohammed Saidu, for his leadership and dedication to excellence, describing the School as a vital pillar in nurturing the next generation of cutting-edge airmen.
In his remarks, Air Commodore Saidu praised the resilience, focus, and determination of the graduating officers, describing them as “a new breed of airmen ready to redefine Nigeria’s aerial intelligence and surveillance capabilities.” He noted that the training has fully equipped them for vital missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision engagement in support of joint operations across Nigeria’s security landscape.
“This milestone is not just about wings on your chest,” he said. “It is about vision, responsibility, and service. You now represent the sharp edge of a smarter, stronger, and more strategic Nigerian Air Force.”
Under the visionary leadership of Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force has intensified its transformation agenda through technological innovation, advanced training, and modernization of its operational assets. The graduation of the new UAV operators further demonstrates the Service’s commitment to delivering precision airpower for national security and the protection of Nigerian lives.
