The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to strengthen its aeromedical evacuation capabilities by enrolling its Nursing Officers in specialised training at the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine in Dayton, Ohio, United States.
The training, facilitated through the Office of Security Cooperation, is designed to enhance the NAF’s counter-terrorism operations by equipping personnel with critical skills in rapid casualty evacuation and in-flight medical care.
According to the NAF, the programme focuses on mission-oriented competencies, including operational planning, safety and contingency procedures, crew resource management, and comprehensive patient care in air environments.
Conducted under simulated flight conditions, the course integrates pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight procedures, alongside hands-on use of advanced medical and diagnostic equipment.
The initiative aims to improve air-to-ground coordination and ensure seamless medical support across combat and support missions, thereby boosting operational effectiveness and survivability in active theatres.
So far, two officers have completed the programme and returned to Nigeria, while additional personnel are scheduled to undergo training later this year. Upon completion, the trained officers will be deployed to operational units to strengthen aeromedical evacuation missions and overall force health protection.
The development aligns with the command philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who has prioritised personnel safety and capacity development as key pillars in building a responsive and mission-ready Air Force.
