By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has called for renewed national commitment towards raising disciplined, responsible and resilient boys capable of contributing meaningfully to national development and security.
Speaking as Nigeria joined the global community to commemorate the International Day of the Boy Child 2026, Air Marshal Aneke emphasized the importance of mentorship, positive masculinity and emotional support in shaping the future of young boys across the country.
Reflecting on the 2026 theme, “Flourish & Thrive: Investing in Boys for Stronger Families and Communities,” the Chief of the Air Staff noted that boys today face growing societal challenges, including crime, substance abuse, cybercrime, violent extremism and negative peer influence.
He stressed that conversations centred on “Breaking the Silence: Boys and Mental Health” as well as “Boys for Integrity” had become increasingly important in raising confident, morally upright and responsible young men capable of positively impacting society.
Air Marshal Aneke further stated that the Nigerian Air Force remained committed to youth development through its network of NAF Secondary Schools and Military School, which continue to instill discipline, leadership qualities and character development alongside academic excellence.
According to the CAS, the Nigerian Air Force has also introduced special youth empowerment initiatives focused on information technology, vocational training, entrepreneurship, aviation-related trades and heavy equipment operations aimed at promoting self-reliance among young people and reducing their vulnerability to crime and extremism.
He urged Nigerian boys to embrace discipline, patriotism, integrity and hard work while rejecting all forms of anti-social behaviour capable of undermining their future and the nation’s stability.
The Chief of the Air Staff reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to programmes and initiatives designed to empower young people towards building stronger families, safer communities and a more secure and prosperous Nigeria.
