By Victor Akaa.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has etched a new chapter in its history by officially welcoming its inaugural cohort of Ex-Junior Air Women (Ex-JAWs) as Airwomen.
Air Commodore Ejodame Ehimen, Director Public Relations and Information,NAF, disclosed this on Monday stating that the significant development by the Nigerian Air Force marks a groundbreaking stride towards gender inclusivity.
He noted that the monumental development stems from the NAF’s visionary decision to extend its Absorption Policy, initially reserved for Ex-Junior Air Men (Ex-JAMs), to encompass their female counterparts from the Air Force Girls’ Military School (AFGMS).
The policy revision opens up exciting career avenues for young women aspiring to serve as Non-Commissioned Officers in the NAF.
According to the statement, the trailblazing beneficiaries of this transformative policy are members of the AFGMS Class of 2017, who graduated in August 2023.
It noted that following a rigorous selection process, these remarkable women underwent the 2024 NAF recruitment training at NAF Base, Kaduna, where they demonstrated exceptional mettle and successfully completed their military training.
The statement adds that the absorption of Ex-JAWs into the NAF ranks not only provides a direct pathway to military service but also unlocks doors to educational and professional growth through the NAF’s comprehensive training programmes.
It notes that for many of these women, this opportunity represents more than a career – it offers a future built on pride, purpose, and empowerment.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, hailed this milestone as a testament to the Air Force’s commitment to empowering young women and ensuring equal opportunities for all. He emphasised that the AFGMS has produced over 3,500 graduates who have gone on to excel in various sectors, including the Armed Forces, government, academia, and other corporations.
“This is a moment of triumph for every girl who has ever dreamed to f wearing the uniform. It is a testament to the Air Force’s commitment to empowering young women and ensuring equal opportunities for all,” the CAS stated.
Enugu Reporters reports that as these pioneering women embark on their roles, they carry with them a legacy of achievement and a powerful message that gender is no barrier to excellence, service, or nation-building.
The statement notes that the beneficiaries are not just making history; they are rewriting it.
The NAF’s bold step towards gender inclusivity is poised to inspire a new generation of young women to pursue careers in the military, fostering a more diverse and equitable society.
