The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has graduated 111 personnel from Special Forces Course 13/2026 as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen its operational capability and enhance national security across the country.
According to an official signed statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the graduation ceremony was held at the Regiment Training Centre Annex (RTCA), Bauchi, marking the successful completion of an intensive training programme designed to produce highly skilled, combat-ready and mission-oriented Special Forces operators.
The statement noted that the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who was represented at the event by the Chief of Training, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal AY Dari, congratulated the graduating personnel for successfully completing one of the Service’s most demanding training courses.
Addressing the graduates, Air Marshal Aneke urged them to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and courage in the discharge of their responsibilities.
“The strength of any fighting force lies not only in its equipment but in the quality, discipline and determination of its personnel. You are now part of an elite cadre entrusted with critical responsibilities in safeguarding our nation. Serve with honour, remain mission-focused and let your actions reflect the values of the Nigerian Air Force,” he stated.
The statement explained that the comprehensive training programme equipped the graduates with specialist knowledge, tactical skills and operational resilience required to execute Special Forces missions in complex and dynamic operational environments. It added that the trainees underwent rigorous physical, mental and tactical exercises aimed at enhancing leadership, teamwork, adaptability and mission effectiveness in support of air and joint military operations.
Earlier, the Commandant of the Regiment Training Centre Annex, Bauchi, Squadron Leader EL Akpan, expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Air Staff for his continued support towards Special Forces training and capacity development. He reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to producing competent, resilient and mission-ready operators capable of undertaking specialised assignments across diverse operational theatres.
A major highlight of the ceremony was a series of tactical demonstrations by the graduating personnel, including obstacle-crossing drills, commando self-defence techniques and air assault operations. The displays showcased the operational competence, teamwork, physical endurance and combat readiness acquired during the course.
Among dignitaries present at the event were the Air Officer Commanding Ground Training Command, Air Vice Marshal AG Kehinde; the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal A. Idris, represented by the Commander 251 Base Services Group, Air Commodore Y. Bashir; the Director of Regiment, Air Commodore Olayera; as well as senior military officers, representatives of sister services, other security agencies and invited guests.
The graduation of the 111 Special Forces operators, the statement added, represents another significant milestone in the Nigerian Air Force’s sustained investment in human capacity development and operational excellence. It reinforces the Service’s commitment to building a highly motivated, professional and combat-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in synergy with surface forces, protecting lives and advancing national security objectives across the country.
