The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commemorated the 2026 International Women’s Day with a seminar aimed at strengthening mentorship, collaboration and professional development among its female personnel.
Speaking at the event held at the Headquarters Nigerian Air Force in Abuja, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended officers and airwomen for their professionalism, resilience and dedication to service.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Abdullahi, the CAS said the seminar’s theme, “Give to Gain – Professionalism, Collaboration and Collective Uplift,” underscores the importance of mentorship, knowledge sharing and teamwork in building stronger institutions and advancing professional excellence within the Service.
According to him, meaningful progress within the Air Force and society at large can only be achieved when individuals work together for collective success.
Air Marshal Aneke also praised the growing contributions of women across several operational and technical specialties in the Service, including piloting, engineering, medical services, armament operations and administration.
He noted that the increasing number of female officers excelling in leadership, operational and technical roles reflects the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to fostering a gender-inclusive environment where opportunities are driven by merit, competence and professionalism.
The CAS further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the Nigerian Air Force and for initiatives aimed at empowering women, including the Nigeria for Women Programme.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, thanked the Chief of the Air Staff for supporting the maiden seminar, described it as a significant initiative to celebrate the achievements of female personnel in the Nigerian Air Force.
He explained that the seminar, organised by the Civil-Military Relations Branch, was designed to promote mentorship, collaboration and professional development among airwomen, while encouraging them to continue contributing meaningfully to the operational effectiveness and institutional growth of the Nigerian Air Force.
