The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has underscored the importance of training, professionalism, and inter-agency collaboration in strengthening aviation safety and operational efficiency across Nigeria.
This position was reiterated by the Chief of Training, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Dari, during a joint graduation ceremony held in Kaduna for participants of the maiden Air Traffic Control and Surveillance Radar Course 1/2024 and the ATCA/Base Operations Upgrading Course 9/2026.
Dari noted that the Air Traffic Services Training Centre (ATSTC), which is accredited by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) as an Approved Training Organisation, has consistently delivered high-quality aviation training programmes.
He explained that the radar course, which began in November 2024, trained 20 cadets from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), all of whom successfully completed the programme.
According to him, well-trained air traffic controllers are essential for maintaining the safe, orderly, and efficient movement of aircraft in both civil and military airspace.
He added that the graduates would proceed to gain practical, on-the-job experience at NAMA facilities in major airports nationwide, a requirement for obtaining licensing from the NCAA.
Dari commended the partnership between NAF and NAMA, describing it as a strategic collaboration that enhances safety standards, promotes innovation, and encourages effective resource utilisation within the aviation sector.
He reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to maintaining the training centre as a centre of excellence for both military personnel and civilian aviation professionals.
The senior officer also urged the graduates to uphold professionalism, remain dedicated, and contribute meaningfully to safe air operations, particularly in the face of ongoing security challenges. He further congratulated outstanding participants and encouraged all graduates to represent the institution with integrity.
Dari also acknowledged the support of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in advancing training initiatives and strengthening the operational capacity of the Armed Forces.
Earlier, the Commandant of ATSTC, Air Vice Marshal Nosiru Folaji, described the graduation as a significant step in building human capacity within the aviation industry.
Folaji disclosed that the centre recently renewed its NCAA accreditation and expanded its course offerings, positioning it to serve military personnel, civil aviation stakeholders, and even allied countries.
He explained that the radar course was introduced to address manpower shortages caused by retirements and limited training opportunities in the sector.
According to him, the graduates are now equipped with the technical expertise required to handle aerodrome and approach control duties, including radar surveillance operations.
Folaji urged them to uphold core values such as discipline, teamwork, integrity, and continuous professional development throughout their careers.
He also praised instructors and partner organisations, especially NAMA, for their contributions to the success of the training programmes.
The ceremony marked the graduation of 20 NAMA air traffic control cadets alongside participants of the ATCA/Base Operations upgrading course.