NAF Graduates Elite Special Forces For Counter-Insurgency, Counter-Terrorism Operations
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has graduated personnel of Special Forces Course 12/2025, further strengthening its pool of mission-ready forces for sustained counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations across the country.
The graduation reflects the Command Philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, which prioritises standardised training, professionalism, and mission-focused capability development.
Of the 250 NAF Regiment personnel nominated and screened in September 2025, 150 commenced the rigorous programme, with 136 elite personnel, comprising 1 officer and 135 airmen and airwomen, successfully completing the demanding 13-week course to earn their place among the NAF Panthers.
The course was delivered through a comprehensively upgraded curriculum tailored to contemporary operational realities and divided into six mission-specific phases.
Training covered support weapons handling, Air-to-Ground Integration, French language proficiency, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal/Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices (EOD/CIED).
Speaking on the training, the CAS emphasised that “our focus is to build Special Forces who are resilient, adaptable, and fully prepared for the demands of modern counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.”
He said that mission readiness remains central to the Nigerian Air Force’s operational effectiveness.
In his remarks, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, commended the graduates for their discipline, endurance, and professional conduct throughout the course.
He specifically praised the Commandant, Regiment Training Centre Annex Bauchi, Group Captain US Agha, and his instructors for their dedication and effective delivery of a demanding, mission-oriented programme.
The AOC stated that “the successful outcome of Special Forces Course 12/2025 underscores our commitment to standardised training and mission-focused capability development, ensuring that the Special Forces remain dependable and decisive in complex operational environments.
He further acknowledged the guidance and sustained support of the CAS, reaffirming the resolve of the Special Operations Command to continue producing elite forces in support of national security objectives.
