As part of activities marking the 61st Anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Ground Training Command (GTC), Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Ahmed Shinkafi, has called on youths from the South-East to consider careers in the Nigerian Air Force.
The appeal was made during an Open Day event held in Enugu on Friday.
Represented by the Chief of Staff of the GTC, AVM Anthony Martins, Shinkafi expressed concern over the low enrollment of youths from the region in military and paramilitary services.
He emphasized that the Nigerian Air Force offers structured career progression, educational advancement, and specialized training opportunities both within Nigeria and abroad.
“You can build a distinguished career while serving the fatherland through the NAF,” he said.
“There is equal opportunity for both male and female candidates, and we encourage young women to take up roles as airwomen, officers, and combatants.”
“Their energy, innovation, and ideas are essential to confronting current and emerging security threats.”
He further urged community leaders and dignitaries present to help sensitize youths in their respective communities about the opportunities available in the NAF, noting that each state in the South-East has a recruitment quota yet to be fully utilized.
Highlighting the achievements of the NAF, Shinkafi said it remains a dominant force in air combat operations in Africa and has successfully participated in several peacekeeping missions across the continent.
“Our operations are driven by cutting-edge technology, modern aircraft, precision weapon systems, and highly trained personnel. These ensure the effectiveness and accuracy of our missions,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Sarkin Hausawa of Enugu State, Alhaji Abubakar Sambo, commended the Nigerian Air Force for its contributions to national security over the past 61 years.
He praised the Open Day initiative for allowing civilians to engage with military personnel and gain insight into the workings of the force.
“This platform bridges the gap between the military and the public, especially young people who may be inspired to pursue military careers,” Sambo noted.
Some of the students who attended the event shared their experiences.
Master Ralph Uchechukwu, a student from Nike Grammar School, said he was fascinated by the aircraft demonstrations and the engineering checks that precede flight operations.
“With what I’ve seen today, I would love to become a pilot in the Nigerian Air Force,” he said.
Miss Nonye Onyeabor of New Haven Secondary School, Emene, also expressed interest in a career with the NAF, noting that the presentation made the profession more appealing and accessible, especially for females.
The Open Day featured a range of activities, including documentary screenings on the history and operations of the NAF, exhibitions, guided tours of aircraft and NAF facilities, an interactive session, and group photographs.
