By Mohammad Tijjani
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Wednesday graduated 10 new batch of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) operators, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance its air capabilities.
The Air Officer Commanding (AOC),Tactical Air Command, AVM Patrick Obeya was the Special Guest of Honour at the Operational Conversion Training Course 4 /2025 at NAF Base, Kaduna.
The News Agency of NIgeria (NAN) report that the operators were trained at the 109 Combat Reconnaissance Group NAF, the graduation ceremony, held at the 233 Wing Hangar in Kaduna.
Obeya said. “I’m honored to be here today to celebrate the graduation of Operational Conversion Training 4/2025.
“This is a proud moment for these dedicated professionals who have worked hard to complete this rigorous training.
“Today marks a significant milestone in your careers and in the Nigerian Air Force.
” You’ve been equipped with the skills and knowledge to project air power, provide real-time ISR capabilities, and support joint operations.”
He appreciated the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, for his commitment to training and human capacity development. His leadership has enabled this training to happen.
Obeya explained that the operational conversion training had consolidated their fundamental knowledge and prepared you for operational deployment.
“You’ve received advanced training in ground academics, simulator, and flying phases, “he said.
Obeya urged them to move forward, advising, “don’t rest on your laurels.
“Stay ahead of the curve and pursue self-development. Your expertise contributes to the betterment of millions of Nigerians.”
He commended the Commander, 109 Combat Reconnaissance Group and his team for their efforts in making the training happen. Keep up the good work.
“To the award winners, congratulations! You’ve set the bar high. To the graduands, remember that every mission you conduct makes a difference,”Obeya said.
He said the graduation of the new RPA operators was a significant boost to the NAF’s efforts to enhance its air capabilities and contribute to the country’s national security.
Earlier, the Commander, 109 Reconnaissance Group, Group Capt, Augustine Idoko, said the training program was aimed to develop professional and mission-ready Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) operators capable of delivering decisive air power effects.
Idoko said, ” It is gratifying to note that from Jan to Dec 2025, the unit had conducted over 315 missions and accumulated more than 1800 flying hours.
“These operations had led to an improvement in the overall security situation within our general area of responsibility.
“Today, the unit is proudly adding another 10 operators to its operational manpower disposition.
“Other support crew training for maintenance and datalink personnel have collectively developed capacity of over 50 personnel and ultimately boosted the NAF’s technical manpower capacity.”
He aplauded Aneke for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to training and capability development.
He said, “Which is one of the pillars of the key drivers of his command philosophy, christened ‘Standardized Training and Mission Focused Capability Development’.
Idoko thanked the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, for his mentorship and guidance, and the Chief of Staff, Tactical Air Command, for his continuous support.(NÀN)(www.nannews.ng)