Nigerian Air Force (NAF) educational institutions are set to benefit from a fresh wave of support from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).
This was disclosed by the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, following the visit of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to its headquarters on Tuesday.
The visit was aimed at renewing a partnership to strengthen the nation’s tertiary education system, particularly within Nigerian Air Force (NAF) institutions.
He said TETFund’s influence often precedes its presence at institutions, with its logo symbolising quality education and development.
According to him, the organisation is more than a federal parastatal but a strategic partner in national development.
The Air Chief noted that TETFund has consistently strengthened its reputation as a driver of academic excellence, research innovation and human capital development.
According to him, over the years, TETFund’s interventions in the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) have been particularly impactful.
Aneke noted the support received has enhanced AFIT’s capacity to deliver quality technical training and contribute to national development.
Highlighting AFIT’s evolution over 48 years, Aneke described the institution as a multidisciplinary centre of excellence producing highly skilled manpower for Nigeria’s aviation, aerospace and defence sectors.
“AFIT has become one of the most sought-after institutions of higher learning in Nigeria for aviation-related studies, owing to its reputation for academic excellence, strict discipline and zero tolerance for strikes,” Aneke said.
He credited TETFund’s interventions for creating an enabling environment where students and faculty can thrive without disruptions. From fully equipped laboratories to modern hostels, TETFund’s contributions have been integral to the institution’s success.
The Air Chief also drew attention to the Nigerian Air Force College of Nursing, which operates alongside the School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine. The college, he said, provides specialised training in nursing and healthcare services regulated by the National Board for Technical Education and the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
Aneke further emphasised that TETFund’s support in infrastructure development and academic capacity building strengthens not only NAF institutions but also the broader healthcare system, ensuring the production of skilled personnel who serve both military and civilian needs.
Acknowledging TETFund’s ongoing contributions, Aneke outlined key requests for further support. He proposed the establishment of an artificial intelligence and robotics laboratory at AFIT to advance research and innovation in emerging technologies critical for aerospace and defence.
He also sought assistance for the construction of a five-kilometre perimeter security fence with integrated smart surveillance systems, alongside residential accommodation for teaching and non-teaching staff to enhance welfare and retain talent.
“Our Aviation Medicine School is critical to operations across the entire spectrum of the force,” Aneke said.
Responding, Echono emphasised the strategic importance of the Nigerian Air Force in both national security and education.
Reaffirming TETFund’s commitment, Echono assured the Air Chief that interventions in AFIT, including staff accommodation and infrastructure, are already planned for this year.
He emphasised that TETFund’s support extends beyond physical facilities to improving the overall teaching and learning environment, ensuring institutions produce graduates equipped with both knowledge and discipline.
“AFIT is now one of the most sought-after institutions in the country, offering guaranteed quality of faculty, timely completion of programmes and disciplined learning,” Echono.”
Kuni Tyessi
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