Nigerian Air Force Welcomes 30 New Helicopter Pilots, Commissions Upgraded Facilities
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) today welcomed 30 newly graduated helicopter pilots into its ranks, charging them to embrace continuous learning, teamwork, and the highest standards of professionalism to meet the demands of modern warfare.
The was disclosed in a press statement by NAF Spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
The charge was delivered by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, during the Combined Graduation Ceremony of the Integrated Helicopter Pilot Course 9/2024 and Airline Transport Pilot Licence Course 2/2025.
Represented by the Chief of Training and Operations, Air Vice Marshal Edosa, Air Marshal Abubakar congratulated the pilots on their significant achievement, emphasizing the critical role they will play in national security.
“You are stepping into a dynamic and complex operational environment,” Air Marshal Abubakar stated in a speech laced with inspiration and urgency. “The threats to our national security are multifaceted and constantly evolving. Your success will depend not only on the flying skills you have acquired but on your ability to adapt, collaborate, and operate as part of a coordinated joint force.”
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He urged the new pilots to wear their wings with humility and a deep sense of responsibility, reminding them that they carry the hopes of a nation and the trust of a service dedicated to peace and stability. The graduation ceremony, held at the International Helicopter Flying School (IHFS) in Enugu, also marked a significant milestone for the institution with the commissioning of its newly renovated aircraft hangar. This critical infrastructure upgrade is set to improve maintenance capabilities and operational readiness.
Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted that the hangar is one of several ongoing projects, including a new school headquarters and 36 units of student accommodation, demonstrating the NAF’s commitment to transforming IHFS into a global standard for helicopter training.
“The Nigerian Air Force is not only training pilots,” he asserted, “we are building a self-reliant, mission-oriented, and resilient force capable of meeting the airpower demands of today’s battle space.”
The ceremony also celebrated the graduation of IHFS flight instructors who completed their Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) training, alongside promotions for several instructors. This reflects the school’s growing instructional capacity and adherence to global best practices. The CAS reaffirmed that IHFS remains a cornerstone of his command philosophy, which prioritizes deliberate training, human capacity development, and infrastructure-driven operational excellence.
Air Marshal Abubakar acknowledged the professionalism and dedication of the Rector and instructional team at IHFS for producing world-class pilots. He also praised Aeronautical Engineering and Technical Services Limited and the School’s Board of Directors for their oversight and strategic support. The combined ceremony not only celebrated pilot proficiency but also unveiled a broader strategic vision for rotary-wing aviation within Nigeria’s evolving security architecture.
By PRNigeria
