The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has strengthened its joint operations capability with the graduation of 111 personnel from Special Forces Course 13/2026, aimed at enhancing national security and ongoing military operations across the country.
The graduation ceremony, held at the Regiment Training Centre Annex (RTCA), Bauchi, marked the completion of an intensive programme designed to produce highly skilled, combat-ready and mission-oriented operators.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, represented by the Chief of Training, Air Vice Marshal A.Y. Dari, congratulated the graduates for successfully completing one of the NAF’s most demanding training programmes.
Aneke urged the personnel to uphold professionalism, discipline and courage in the discharge of their duties.
“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,” he said.
The CAS charged the graduates to remain mission-focused and ensure their actions reflected the core values of the Nigerian Air Force.
He said the training equipped the personnel with specialist knowledge, tactical skills and operational resilience required for Special Forces missions in complex security environments.
According to him, the trainees underwent demanding physical, mental and tactical exercises aimed at enhancing leadership, teamwork, adaptability and mission effectiveness in support of air and joint operations.
Earlier, the Commandant of RTCA Bauchi, Sqn. Ldr. E.L. Akpan, appreciated the CAS for his support towards Special Forces training and capacity development.
Akpan reaffirmed the centre’s commitment to producing competent, resilient and mission-ready operators capable of executing specialised tasks across diverse operational environments.
A 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 demonstrations showcased the operational competence, teamwork, physical endurance and fighting spirit acquired during the course.
The Air Officer Commanding Ground Training Command, Air Vice Marshal A.G. Kehinde, and representatives of the Special Operations Command, sister services and other security agencies attended the event.
The NAF said the graduation represented another milestone in its investment in human capacity development and operational excellence.
According to the service, the newly trained personnel will enhance its ability to deliver decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces while supporting national security objectives.
It added that sustained investment in elite training remained critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and promoting peace, security and stability across the country.
