24 NAF personnel complete maiden life-saving course in combat situations
A total of 24 Special Forces and Regiment personnel of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have completed a three-day life-saving course in Kaduna, tailored to the unique challenges of combat situations.
The course, put together by the Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine, provided the participants with the appropriate skills to increase the likelihood of survival for injured comrades on the battlefield.
“The CLS course is decisive for the members of the Armed Forces as they provide expert training in life-saving measures tailored to the unique challenges of combat situations,” the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, AVM Ahmed Dari said while addressing the graduands.
He expressed gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar for approving and funding the conduct of the pioneer programme.
According to him, by equipping the military personnel with the skills to administer immediate medical care even under fire, the programme will increase the likelihood of survival for injured comrades on the battlefield.
Dari also said that the course would enhance the overall readiness and effectiveness of military units by ensuring that personnel were well prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to casualties in high-stress environments.
They will ultimately be saving lives and fostering a culture of care and support within the armed forces, he added.
Dari noted that the special course align with the key enablers of the CAS’ command philosophy, which is ‘Deliberate Training and Mission Oriented Force Development’.
He appreciated the Commandant, Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine for initiating the course, Lt.-Col. Holger Bernard, the Head of Mission, German Technical Advisory Group, for his collaboration “which ultimately led to the success of the training”.
The AOC urged the beneficiaries to rededicate themselves to the service of the Nigerian Air Force and the nation.
Earlier, the Commandant of the School, Air Commodore Rilwanu Abdullahi, said the training was NAF’s effort to enhance operational capabilities and safeguard the lives of personnel.
Abdullahi said the training was aimed at enhancing battlefield readiness, reducing preventable casualties, and preserving combat effectiveness.
According to him, by investing in the life-saving course, the NAF has demonstrated commitment to protecting the lives of its personnel.
Abdullahi said the training was necessary to professionally handle combat-related injuries before reaching the hospital or evacuation to a safe zone.
“Investing in CLS education not only strengthens the capabilities of our armed forces but also underscores our commitment to safeguarding the lives of those who laid their lives to protect us,” he said.
“As the NAF continues to enhance its capabilities, the CLS training will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of its personnel.”
Also, Bernard, the Head of Mission of the German Technical Advisory Group, told the graduands that it was their motivation that made the training successful.
Bernard said training was a prerequisite for safe action and successful mission fulfillment.
