The Nigerian Air Force has graduated 49 personnel from specialised airfield support and safety training programmes aimed at boosting operational air safety and enhancing mission effectiveness across its operational theatres and joint-user airfields.
The graduation, conducted through the Air Traffic Services Training Centre (ATSTC), featured participants from the Air Traffic Control Assistant/Base Operations Upgrading Course 9/2026 and Fire Upgrading Course 10/2026.
According to the NAF, the intensive four-week programmes equipped the personnel with advanced skills in air traffic control procedures, aerodrome operations, emergency coordination, aircraft rescue, and firefighting operations critical to sustaining safe and efficient air missions.
The training included classroom instruction, simulator-based exercises, and practical drills focused on runway incursion prevention, flight data processing, aerodrome inspections, Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) origination, aircraft firefighting tactics, and mass casualty response procedures.
Participants of the Fire Upgrading Course were also trained to meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) emergency response standards, particularly in achieving rapid response timelines during emergencies.
As part of the programme, trainees undertook guided study tours to the 401 Flying Training School and Hassan Usman Katsina International Airport, where they were exposed to real-time operational procedures and best practices in airfield management and emergency response operations.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the Commandant of ATSTC, Air Vice Marshal NB Folaji, stressed the critical role of support personnel in sustaining safe air operations.
“Air traffic control, base operations and firefighting personnel remain indispensable to the success of air missions. Their professionalism and preparedness are vital to ensuring safe, efficient and uninterrupted flying operations across all theatres,” he said.
Folaji commended the graduating personnel for their discipline and commitment throughout the training period.
“The successful completion of these courses reflects the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to strengthening operational readiness and enhancing the safety architecture supporting our air operations nationwide,” he added.
He also urged the graduates to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the training in their various units and operational deployments.
“You must remain professional, vigilant and proactive in the discharge of your duties, as the safety of personnel, aircraft and operations depends greatly on your competence and responsiveness,” the commandant stated.