By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified the military training of its newest recruits, as 816 trainees of Basic Military Training Course (BMTC) 46/2025 completed a six-day intensive bush camp exercise designed to test their physical endurance, tactical skills and combat readiness.
The exercise, codenamed Exercise MUN FARA, was conducted at the NAF Base Kaduna from October 12 to 17, 2026, featuring a series of demanding military activities aimed at preparing the recruits for operational responsibilities.
The trainees participated in day and night navigation, patrols, ambushes, attack drills and tent pitching, among other field exercises designed to assess their ability to apply basic military skills and operate effectively under challenging conditions.
The exercise climaxed with a gruelling 20-kilometre cross-country competition, which saw Alpha-Jet Squadron emerge as the overall winner after completing the race in two hours, 33 minutes and seven seconds.
Recruit Mohammed U of MI-35 Squadron finished first in the male category, while Recruit Salihu SO of ATR-42 Squadron emerged winner in the female category, showcasing exceptional endurance and determination.
Commending the trainees for their performance, the Commandant of the Military Training Centre, Air Commodore AO Akins, said the exercise provided an opportunity to evaluate their practical understanding of essential military skills, including fieldcraft, weapon handling and map reading.
He praised the recruits for demonstrating resilience, discipline and team spirit throughout the exercise, stressing the importance of such training in developing personnel capable of meeting the demands of military service.
The Nigerian Air Force said the exercise forms part of its progressive training programme aimed at producing disciplined, confident and mission-ready personnel.
The recruits are expected to proceed to their final bush camp exercise before completing their training and joining the Nigerian Air Force for service.
