In a major step towards gender equality and empowerment, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially integrated its first-ever female ex-Junior Air Women (Ex-JAWs) into its ranks. This marks a historic shift as the NAF opens its doors wider for young women interested in serving as Non-Commissioned Officers, with the hope of fostering greater gender inclusion within the military.
This development follows a significant policy change in the Nigerian Air Force, where the Absorption Policy—initially exclusive to graduates of the Air Force Military School (AFMS) for Ex-Junior Air Men (Ex-JAMs)—was extended to include graduates from the Air Force Girls’ Military School (AFGMS). With this policy review, young female military trainees are now able to join the NAF’s ranks in the same way as their male counterparts, offering them a valuable opportunity for service, career growth, and personal development.
The first beneficiaries of this monumental shift are the graduates of the 2017 class of AFGMS. These young women, who completed their studies in August 2023, participated in a competitive selection process and underwent the rigorous 2024 NAF recruitment training at the NAF Base in Kaduna. Their successful completion of the training has earned them a place within the NAF, as they officially join the service’s ranks as Airwomen.
The revision of the Absorption Policy, which previously only accepted male graduates from AFMS, has now opened up exciting career opportunities for young women aspiring to serve in the military. The policy change aims to ensure that the NAF is inclusive and representative of the broader society, giving women a greater opportunity to make a mark within the armed forces.
With this policy revision, female students from the prestigious AFGMS, which has been in operation for nearly four decades, will now have the same direct pathway to military service as their male peers. The shift allows for greater gender parity and sets the stage for other military institutions to consider similar inclusivity programs.
These young women are stepping into military roles with a strong foundation. They have undergone years of disciplined training and leadership development at AFGMS, which has played a key role in shaping them into capable, skilled, and determined individuals. The NAF’s commitment to gender equality is evident in the fact that this move is not just about allowing women to join the military, but also about ensuring they are equipped for success once they are in.
For many of the women who have benefited from this policy revision, this opportunity represents more than just a career path; it symbolizes empowerment, pride, and purpose. The NAF has pledged to support these new Airwomen not only through their military service but also by providing continuous education and training programs to help them build their careers within the Air Force.
The role of women in the NAF has always been vital, but this policy change provides a clearer and more equal path for female candidates. The opportunity to serve as a Non-Commissioned Officer offers them a chance to lead, inspire, and contribute to their communities and country in ways that were previously limited.
The Nigerian Air Force recognizes that women are an essential part of any institution’s success, and this initiative is proof that it values the contribution of women to its mission. With the policy change, the NAF is paving the way for the future of military service in Nigeria to be more inclusive, diverse, and progressive.
Speaking on the historic integration of Ex-JAWs into the NAF, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, expressed his pride and excitement, stating, “This is a moment of triumph for every girl who has ever dreamed of wearing the uniform. It is a testament to the Air Force’s commitment to empowering young women and ensuring equal opportunities for all.”
He emphasized that this move would create a more balanced and capable Air Force that truly reflects the diversity and potential of Nigeria’s population. Air Marshal Abubakar further underscored the importance of the NAF’s long-standing history of leadership in the military sector, highlighting the achievements of AFGMS graduates, who have gone on to contribute significantly in the armed forces, government, academia, and corporate sectors.
“This policy revision is more than just an opportunity for these young women,” he added. “It is about ensuring that the Nigerian Air Force can continue to grow and evolve with the times, fostering a culture of inclusivity and opportunity for every Nigerian.”
The success of AFGMS is evident in the achievements of its graduates. Over the years, the school has produced over 3,500 graduates who have excelled in various fields, including in the Nigerian Armed Forces and beyond. These women have built legacies of service, leadership, and determination.
The integration of Ex-JAWs into the NAF’s ranks is a significant step toward continuing this legacy of excellence, showing that women have an important role to play in the defense and progress of their nation.
The newly integrated Airwomen bring with them the collective knowledge, experience, and skills cultivated at AFGMS, where they were trained to become leaders in their communities and nation. They are ready to contribute to the NAF and represent Nigeria on the global stage.
This move is not just a victory for women in the military but also a step forward for gender equality in Nigeria. By opening doors for young women to enter the military service, the NAF has taken a bold stand in supporting gender equality, reinforcing the idea that talent and ambition should never be limited by gender.
The policy change sets a powerful example for other institutions and sectors, proving that gender inclusion and empowerment are essential to building a more prosperous and fair society. These young women are now part of a military force that is more diverse, capable, and committed to serving Nigeria and protecting its future.
As they begin their careers within the NAF, the newly appointed Airwomen are not only making history; they are helping to shape the future of Nigeria’s armed forces and breaking down barriers for the generations of women to come.
