From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force(NAF), has announced the induction of its first set of ex-Junior Air Women into the service.
The induction,according to NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, marked a significant transformative chapter in the history of the service.
Ejodame, said the milestone followed a revision of the NAF’ Absorption Policy, which previously applied solely to male graduates of the Air Force Military School, known as ex-Junior Air Men.
He said the updated policy now included :female graduates from the Air Force Girls’ Military School, broadening career prospects for young women aspiring to serve as non-commissioned officers in the NAF.
Edojame, in a statement, said the graduates of the AFGMS Class of 2017 completed their military training at the NAF Base in Kaduna after undergoing a rigorous recruitment process.
The statement reads:“In a groundbreaking move for gender inclusion, the Nigerian Air Force has officially welcomed its first set of ex-Junior Air Women into its ranks as Airwomen.
“This historic development comes as the NAF extends its Absorption Policy, initially designed exclusively for graduates of the Air Force Military School, known as ex-Junior Air Men, to include their female counterparts from the Air Force Girls’ Military School.
“The first beneficiaries of this transformative policy are the members of the AFGMS Class of 2017, who graduated in August 2023. After a rigorous selection process, these young women entered the 2024 NAF recruitment training at NAF Base Kaduna, where they successfully completed their military training. They have now proudly joined the NAF ranks, marking a new chapter in the history of gender equality within the service.”
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, described the development as a moment of triumph for every girl who has ever dreamed of wearing the uniform.
“It is a testament to the Air Force’s commitment to empowering young women and ensuring equal opportunities for all”.