The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has called on newly commissioned helicopter pilots of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and commitment as they prepare to serve in an increasingly complex security environment.

Air Marshal Abubakar’s message was delivered by the Chief of Training and Operations, Air Vice Marshal Nnamdi Edosa, during the combined graduation ceremony of the Integrated Helicopter Pilot Course 9/2024 and Airline Transport Pilot Licence Course 2/2025, held at the International Helicopter Flying School (IHFS) in Enugu.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the Air Chief urged the 30 graduating pilots to wear their wings with humility and a strong sense of national duty, noting that they represent the hopes of millions of Nigerians and the trust placed in the Air Force as a force for peace and stability.
“This moment signifies the beginning of a journey that demands continuous learning, teamwork, and an unwavering dedication to service,” the statement quoted Abubakar as saying. “The challenges of modern warfare require not just flying skill, but strategic thinking and ethical conduct.”

A highlight of the ceremony was the commissioning of a newly renovated aircraft hangar at IHFS—an essential infrastructure upgrade aimed at enhancing aircraft maintenance and boosting operational readiness.
Air Marshal Abubakar reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the IHFS as a key pillar of his leadership vision, which focuses on deliberate training, human capacity development, and infrastructure-driven operational excellence within the Nigerian Air Force.