The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has graduated 30 new helicopter pilots, with the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, urging them to meet the demands of modern warfare through continuous learning, teamwork, and professionalism.
By Jarryd Sinovich
The pilots completed the Integrated Helicopter Pilot Course 9/2024 and Airline Transport Pilot License Course 2/2025 during a combined graduation ceremony held at the International Helicopter Flying School (IHFS) in Enugu.
In a statement released by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Abubakar commended the pilots on their milestone achievement.
“You are stepping into a dynamic and complex operational environment,” he said. “The threats to our national security are multifaceted and constantly evolving. Your success will depend not only on the flying skills you’ve acquired, but on your ability to adapt, collaborate, and operate as part of a joint force.”
He urged the graduates to wear their wings with humility and responsibility, stressing that they carry the hopes of a nation and the trust of a service that remains a pillar of national stability.
The CAS also highlighted infrastructure developments at IHFS, including a new school headquarters, student accommodation, and expanded hangar facilities, as part of NAF’s drive to position the school as a global benchmark in helicopter pilot training.
“NAF is not only training pilots, but building a mission-ready, resilient airpower force,” he said, reiterating his command philosophy that prioritises training, human capacity development, and operational excellence.
The ceremony also saw the graduation of IHFS flight instructors who completed their Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) training, with several instructors receiving promotions. The CAS commended the rector and instructional team for their professionalism and contribution to pilot development.
Strategic partners, including Aeronautical Engineering and Technical Services Limited and the IHFS Board of Directors, were praised for their oversight and support. The event underscored NAF’s broader vision for rotary-wing aviation as a key component in Nigeria’s evolving national security strategy.
