NASI graduates new paratroopers after rigorous airborne training
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI) has celebrated the graduation of students from Advance Airborne Course 31, Basic Rigger Course 48, Basic Airborne Course 61 and Nigerian Defence Academy Cadets Basic Airborne Course 10 after they successfully completed the prescribed number of military parachute jumps required for qualification as paratroopers.
Major General Godwin Michael Mutkut, Commander Infantry Corps (CIC) and Special Guest of Honour, in a statement obtained from the Nigerian Army on Friday, urged the newly qualified paratroopers to put their training to use in service of the nation.
He charged them to “effectively utilise, consolidate and apply the skills acquired at the Jump School towards enhancing operational effectiveness and mission accomplishment in defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity.”
He added that personnel must “remain steadfast, professional and committed to duty,” noting their expertise is “vital in addressing the contemporary security challenges confronting the nation and achieving lasting peace and stability.”
The CIC also called on graduates to maintain discipline and continue learning.
He urged them to “uphold the highest standards of military discipline, regimentation, courage and professionalism” and to “continually pursue professional military education and specialized training in order to broaden their knowledge, enhance operational competence and remain relevant in an evolving security environment.”
In a course overview and welcome address, NASI Commandant Major General Frank Sunday Etim described the demanding preparation the students underwent, saying they completed “rigorous physical conditioning, intensive airborne drills and psychological preparedness training to earn the privilege of wearing the coveted airborne wings and being recognized as paratroopers.”
He praised their “exceptional discipline, resilience and professionalism” and warned that airborne operations “demand precision and attention to detail, as any lapse could result in serious consequences.”
He reiterated the Rigger motto: “I Will Be Sure Always.”
Major General Etim also presided over the graduation of students from the Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) Driving and Maintenance Section Commanders Course 40.
He charged those graduates to “effectively employ the combat driving and maintenance skills acquired” and to act as “force multipliers by imparting the knowledge to personnel at their respective formations and units,” stressing the APC’s continued importance as a battlefield platform for mobility, protection and firepower.
The ceremony’s high point featured combat graduation jumps, the decoration of qualified students with airborne wings, presentation of merit awards, souvenir presentations and a group photograph.
