The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has winged nine newly trained Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operators as part of efforts to strengthen its precision strike and intelligence-gathering capabilities in ongoing operations across the country.

This is contained in a statement by the NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Thursday in Abuja.

Mr Ejodame said the winging marked a major step in NAF’s modernisation drive towards smarter, technology-driven air operations.

Under the leadership of Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, NAF has continued to expand its operational capabilities through technology integration, advanced training, and innovation-driven warfare, he said.

“The graduation of the new UAV operators, the fourth batch since the programme began, reflects the service’s commitment to deploying precision airpower to protect Nigerian lives and secure the nation’s airspace,” he said.

Speaking at the event, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, represented by the air officer commanding, Air Training Command, AVM Ahmed Dari, described the graduation as “a proud milestone” for the Service.

Mr Aneke said the new UAV operators had completed a rigorous and highly technical training designed to enhance NAF’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations.

“The unmanned aerial vehicles you will be operating are instruments of protection, surveillance, and precision response.

“Operate with professionalism, execute with precision, and serve with honour,” he said.

The CAS said the development came at a crucial time when Nigeria faces complex security challenges, stressing that UAVs now play a decisive role in modern warfare through real-time intelligence and precision engagement.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support and investment in building a modern, agile, and technology-driven Air Force.

He also lauded the commander, 401 Flying Training School, Air Commodore Nasiru Mohammed Saidu, for his commitment to excellence in training, saying the school continues to uphold NAF’s legacy of innovation and professionalism.

(NAN)