The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Wednesday, November 4, winged 28 pilots to man various platforms recently acquired and enhance its ongoing operations.
The NAF also launched its first Safety Management System (SMS) manual and compendium that consolidates all aircraft accident investigation reports in the history of the NAF, airmed to enhance safety during operations.
The two activities were conducted at this year’s NAF’s Training Operations and Safety Seminar, in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, said from January to November 2024, the NAF had trained 54 Pilots abroad, 43 locally, while 16 UAV operators were also trained locally.
He said this year the NAF trained 405 airmen and 186 officers on various courses, seminars and trips.abroad, while 64 personnel are still undergoing courses abroad.
“Additionally, 5,474 and 1,331 personnel have completed and are undergoing various local training courses, respectively,” he said.
In the area of safety, the NAF’s boss said the force achieved a commendable milestone this year by recording zero manned-aircraft accidents, which he said was a testament to the positive outcomes of our continued investment in safety.
He said: “I am also glad to announce that we conducted a comprehensive review of our safety policy, culminating in the development of our first-ever Safety Management System (SMS) manual, which I am proud to launch today.
“Additionally, I will be unveiling a compendium that consolidates all aircraft accident investigation reports in the history of the Nigerian Air Force. This landmark initiative, the first of its kind for the NAF, serves as a vital resource to ensure that lessons are learned, and the critical mistakes of the past are not repeated.
“Today marks another watershed moment for the Nigerian Air Force as we welcome the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to present the Accreditation Certificate to the NAF Air Traffic Services Training Centre (ATSTC). This certificate formally designates the centre as an Approved Training Organization (ATO), authorized to train and certify licensed air traffic controllers, flight dispatchers, and cabin crew.”
“We deeply appreciate the NCAA’s longstanding strategic partnership with the Nigerian Air Force, which has been instrumental in advancing our shared goals.”
Air Marshal Abubakar signed a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau and the Hybrid Health, Safety, and Environment Group.
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He said the MoU was part of NAF’s efforts to further strengthen its collaborative efforts in enhancing safety standards across the aviation sector.
The NAF’s boss also honoured some commanders whose “extraordinary gallantry and exceptional performance led ground offensives” that resulted in the elimination of notorious bandit leaders and gang members in Zamfara State.
Air Marshal Abubakar said: Their dedication and courage exemplify the highest ideals of service to our nation.
“While the entire country is grateful for their remarkable contributions, the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to recognizing, motivating, and rewarding such exemplary individuals in a manner befitting their service and sacrifice,” he added.