The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening operational capabilities against terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping and other security threats through rigorous and realistic Special Forces training.
As part of this effort, the Regiment Training Centre Annex (RTCA), Bauchi, on May 30, 2026, conducted the final Physical Fitness Test for trainees participating in Special Forces Course 13/2026.
According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the assessment marked a critical stage in the selection process, subjecting trainees to demanding physical and mental evaluations designed to identify personnel with the resilience, discipline, endurance and combat mindset required for Special Forces operations.
Speaking on the significance of the exercise, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the evolving security environment requires highly trained and mission-ready personnel capable of responding effectively to emerging threats.
He reiterated the Nigerian Air Force's commitment to supporting ongoing counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and internal security operations aimed at safeguarding lives, protecting communities and maintaining national stability.
"The Nigerian Air Force will continue to train, equip and deploy personnel capable of taking the fight to terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal elements wherever they may be found. Those who threaten innocent citizens, terrorise communities and undermine the peace of our nation must understand that there will be no sanctuary for criminality," the CAS stated.
Also speaking during the exercise, the Commandant of RTCA Bauchi, Squadron Leader Edeama Lawrence Akpan, explained that the fitness test was designed to ensure that only trainees who demonstrate exceptional physical fitness, determination and operational readiness progress in the course.
He noted that Special Forces personnel are often deployed in austere and hostile environments where mission success depends heavily on physical endurance, mental toughness and unwavering commitment to duty.
According to him, the exercise serves as a key benchmark for evaluating trainees' preparedness for the demands of special operations and future operational responsibilities.
The final Physical Fitness Test, he added, reflects the Nigerian Air Force's determination to maintain a highly capable force ready to support military operations across the country and respond effectively to contemporary security challenges.
The NAF said it remains committed to producing physically fit, mentally resilient and mission-ready Special Forces operators through sustained investment in realistic training and uncompromising operational standards.
The Service added that these efforts are aimed at building an elite force capable of dominating the battlespace, protecting innocent lives and contributing significantly to the achievement of national security objectives.
