NAF Makes History, Inducts First Female Recruits from Air Force Girls’ Military School
In a landmark move towards gender inclusion in the Nigerian military, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially inducted its first-ever set of female recruits under its revised Absorption Policy, which now includes graduates of the Air Force Girls’ Military School (AFGMS), Jos.
Until now, the policy had applied solely to graduates of the Air Force Military School (AFMS), known as Ex-Junior Air Men (Ex-JAMs). The newly reviewed policy marks the first time that Ex-Junior Air Women (Ex-JAWs) from AFGMS are being integrated into the service as Airwomen.
The historic beneficiaries are members of the AFGMS Class of 2017, who completed their secondary education in August 2023. Following a rigorous selection process, they were enlisted into the 2024 NAF recruitment training at the NAF Base in Kaduna, where they successfully underwent and completed their military training. They have now formally joined the Nigerian Air Force as Non-Commissioned Officers.
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According to a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, the development signals a major step in the Force’s commitment to gender equality, youth empowerment, and national development.
“This is a moment of triumph for every girl who has ever dreamed of wearing the uniform,” said the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar. “It is a testament to the Air Force’s commitment to empowering young women and ensuring equal opportunities for all.”
Air Marshal Abubakar noted that the policy revision opens up not only career pathways for Ex-JAWs but also access to educational and professional development through NAF’s training platforms. He emphasized that the move reflects the Air Force’s broader agenda of building a more inclusive and capable military force.
He further revealed that over the last 39 years, AFGMS has graduated over 3,500 students, many of whom have excelled in various sectors including the Armed Forces, public service, academia, and corporate leadership.
The newly enlisted Airwomen bring with them a background of discipline, leadership, and excellence instilled at AFGMS, and are poised to make significant contributions to the service and the nation.
As these trailblazing women begin their journey in the Nigerian Air Force, they symbolize a powerful message — that gender is not a barrier to national service, excellence, or leadership.
By PRNigeria