By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine (NAFSMSAM) in Kaduna celebrated the graduation of 47 medical personnel who successfully completed an intensive four-week training program, aimed at advancing their skills and knowledge in medical services.
During the graduation ceremony, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, represented by Air Vice Marshal Nnamdi Ananaba, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, commended the graduands on their accomplishment.
He highlighted that the graduation marked the transition to a new phase, requiring commitment and dedication to contribute to the overall operational objectives of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in ensuring national security.
Air Marshal Abubakar urged the graduates to apply their newly acquired skills with innovation, focus, determination, and discipline.
He emphasized the administration's commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of personnel to build a resilient and capable fighting force.
The training targeted Air Force medical personnel specializing in Pharmacy Technician, Medical Laboratory Technician, X-ray Technician, Dental Technician, Preventive Health Technician, Dietetics Technician, Medical Records Technician, and Veterinary Assistance.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in NAF's commitment to providing high-quality healthcare services for frontline troops and enhancing the Medical Branch's capabilities for effective service delivery.
Addressing crucial manpower needs in emergency and rescue operations, the strategic training aimed to uplift the proficiency of NAF Medical Services in healthcare delivery both in the field and hospital environments.
The Chief of Air Staff highlighted that the graduates are prepared for deployment to NAF hospitals and operational theatres nationwide, ready to participate in aeromedical evacuation and rescue missions.
He emphasized the importance of upholding the highest standards in healthcare delivery as envisioned by the current NAF leadership.
Chief of Medical Services, AVM Anthony Ekpe, commended the dedication of the Chief of Air Staff in advancing training and mission-focused force development within NAF.
He emphasized the tangible benefits of the initiative in capacity building, allowances, accreditation of the NAF School of Nursing, and enhancing public health and humanitarian services.
The Commandant of NAFSMSAM, Air Commodore Rilwanu Abdullahi, explained that the strategic design of the courses aimed to equip participants with essential knowledge and skills for supervisory roles in their medical specialties.
He revealed the school's plan to commence regular allied medical courses with the support of the Chief of Air Staff.
The graduation ceremony featured a demonstration by the graduating students on Airway Management, CPR techniques, Combat Patient Assessment utilizing MARCH sequence, and an overview of the 12 golden steps in managing medical emergencies.
Awards were presented to those who distinguished themselves during the course of study.