The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially graduated 30 helicopter pilots after completing their training at the International Helicopter Flying School (IHFS) in Enugu. The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, who addressed the new pilots at a combined graduation ceremony, encouraged them to embrace continuous learning, teamwork, and professionalism to meet the demands of today’s complex security environment.
The ceremony marked the completion of the Integrated Helicopter Pilot Course 9/2024 and the Airline Transport Pilot License Course 2/2025. It also included the graduation of IHFS flight instructors and the promotion of several teaching staff. Air Marshal Abubakar commended the graduates for their achievement but reminded them that they were stepping into a challenging and evolving operational landscape.
He noted that success in the field would go beyond flying skills, stressing the importance of collaboration and adaptability in joint military operations. He urged the pilots to wear their wings with humility, recognizing that they represent both the hopes of the nation and the credibility of the Air Force.
The Air Chief also highlighted the ongoing expansion at IHFS, which includes new headquarters and 36 student housing units. These developments, he said, show the Air Force’s commitment to building a training institution that meets global standards.
According to him, the school plays a vital role in his command vision of strengthening air power through focused training, human resource development, and infrastructure investment. He praised the IHFS rector and instructors for their dedication and professionalism in shaping a new generation of elite helicopter pilots.
Also acknowledged were the efforts of the Aeronautical Engineering and Technical Services Limited and the school’s Board of Directors for their oversight and strategic guidance.
The event served not only as a celebration of pilot training milestones but also as a step forward in enhancing Nigeria’s rotary-wing capability amid rising national security demands.
