Writing By Usman Sani Editing By Godwin Duru
The Airforce Institute of Technology-AFIT has held the 2025/2026 joint matriculation ceremony for newly admitted diploma and degree students.
The ceremony, which is the eighth in the series since the inception of the institute, was in furtherance of the institute’s efforts in sustaining synergy between military training and academic excellence.
Addressing the students, Director-General of the Airforce Research and Development Institute Osogbo, Air Vice Marshal Adebayo Kehinde noted that AFIT occupies a special place not only in the NAF, but in the entire defence and education architecture of Nigeria.
The Director-General, who was the guest of honour at the event, pointed out that AFIT was established to serve as the intellectual and technological engine room for the Nigerian Airforce and beyond.
“AFIT has evolved, over the years, into a centre of excellence in aerospace engineering, avionics, aircraft maintenance, materials science, cyber technology and allied disciplines”
“AFIT is not just an academic institution; it is a strategic asset that sustains the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Airforce and contributes to Nigeria’s quest for technological self-reliance”.
AVM Kehinde therefore charged the students to approach their studies with seriousness and enthusiasm, make good grades and be worthy ambassadors of their homes, school and the nation.
“You are being trained to contribute to the safety, security and prosperity of Nigeria”
In his welcome address, Commandant of AFIT, AVM Sani Rabe charged the students to be of good conduct and refrain from acts that may jeopardize the work of the institute or likely to bring it or their family names into disrepute.
Represented by his Deputy, AVM Albert Bot, the Commandant disclosed that AFIT in collaboration with the EFCC maintain robust monitoring mechanisms to deter and detect cybercrime.
“I therefore charge you to make the AFIT students’ code of conduct your guide, and to read notices that may be posted from time to time in order to always keep you in line with the expectations of the institute”.
In his remarks, Provost of the institute, Professor Auwal Kasim explained that academic programs at AFIT are tailored to adequately prepare students to develop skills that would make them survive contemporary challenges.
He urged the students to align themselves with the core values of the NAF, which are; integrity first, service before self and excellence in all they do.
“We hope that you will retain them for life, as they will continue to serve you, as you navigate a world that is constantly and rapidly changing”.
A total of 1,204 students were admitted for the 2025/2026 academic session at the institute.
AFIT is a hybrid, tripartite institution that runs degrees, national diploma and sundry military courses that are regulated by the NUC, NBTE and the NAF, in addition to licensing programmes regulated by the NCAA.
Usman Sani
