AFIT: NAF Gets Pioneer Serving Professor, Harps on Academic Excellence, R&D
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recorded a historic milestone with the appointment of Air Vice Marshal Osichinaka Chiedu Ubadike as its first-ever serving officer to be conferred the rank of Professor.
The appointment, approved by the Governing Council of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), marks a significant boost to the NAF’s research and development (R&D) efforts as well as its commitment to academic excellence.
Air Vice Marshal Ubadike, a seasoned scholar and military professional, holds a PhD and Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering and Aerospace Vehicle Design from Cranfield University, United Kingdom. He also possesses three additional Master’s degrees from Ahmadu Bello University and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), alongside a First-Class Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the NDA.
Read Also:
Over the years, Ubadike has spearheaded several cutting-edge research initiatives within the NAF, notably playing a leading role in the development of the indigenous NAF Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), which highlights the Air Force’s growing technical capabilities and pursuit of strategic independence.
In a related development, the Governing Council also approved the appointment of Air Vice Marshal (retired) Paul Jemitola as a Professor of Aerospace Engineering. Professor Jemitola, who previously served as the Commandant of AFIT, is renowned for his expertise in multidisciplinary and multi-objective aircraft design optimization.
He holds both Master’s and Doctoral degrees from Cranfield University and was the lead designer of the NAF UAV project. A chartered engineer in the United Kingdom, Jemitola currently serves as the Acting Vice Chancellor of Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos.
The NAF said these appointments reflect its ongoing commitment to advancing research, innovation, and academic distinction within its ranks.
By PRNigeria
