The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reinforced its commitment to personnel welfare with a mental health awareness programme aimed at equipping military personnel with the knowledge and skills to address psychological challenges associated with military service.
The initiative, organised in collaboration with Arziki Brands Nigeria Limited, brought together military students of the Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine (NAFSMSAM) and the Nigerian Air Force College of Nursing Sciences for a workshop on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The workshop, themed “Healing Pathways for PTSD and Mental Health,” focused on promoting psychological resilience and enhancing participants’ understanding of mental health issues within the military environment.
Experts delivered presentations on recognising and managing PTSD, anxiety and anger management, as well as the role of emotional intelligence in strengthening leadership, teamwork and conflict resolution.
Participants also received practical guidance on the early identification and management of psychological challenges, while developing skills in emotional resilience, effective communication and sound decision-making to support both personal well-being and operational performance.
Representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Commandant of NAFSMSAM, Air Vice Marshal AC Ekpe, described the workshop as a timely initiative that aligns with the Air Force’s commitment to the welfare and professional development of its personnel.
He urged participants to maximise the knowledge acquired and encouraged military personnel to foster a culture in which seeking support for mental health challenges is viewed as a demonstration of strength, professionalism and commitment to duty.
The programme reflects the Nigerian Air Force’s broader strategy of prioritising personnel welfare as a key component of operational readiness, recognising that a psychologically resilient workforce is essential for sustaining mission effectiveness and delivering decisive air power in defence of the nation.
