Nigerian Air Force officer gets International Sword of Honour in UK

Nigerian Air Force officer gets International Sword of Honour in UK

Abdullateef Fowewe

A Nigerian Air Force officer, David Sangokoya, has been awarded the International Sword of Honour for 2023 at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell, United Kingdom.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the NAF Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Kabiru Ali on Friday.

The International Sword of Honour goes to the most outstanding among the award-winning International Cadets for the year.

The sterling award was presented to Sangokoya by His Royal Highness, William, the Prince of Wales, on behalf of King Charles Ill, at the Royal Graduation on Thursday, 12 September 2024.

The statement reads, “A Nigerian Air Force officer has been awarded the International Sword of Honour for 2023 at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell (RAFCC), United Kingdom (UK). Flying Officer David Sangokoya attended the Modularised Initial Officers’ Training (MIOT) Course 22 as a cadet from March to September 2023, emerging as the Best International Cadet on the Course.

“The RAFCC graduates up to eight courses yearly, and the International Sword of Honour goes to the most outstanding amongst the award-winning international cadets for the year.

“The prestigious award was presented to Flying Officer Sangokoya by His Royal Highness, William, the Prince of Wales, on behalf of King Charles Ill, at the Royal Graduation on 12 September 2024. It is noteworthy that Flying Officer Sangokoya is the first African recipient of the RAFCC International Sword of Honour. This highlights not only the young officer’s individual excellence but also the NAF’s pedigree of exceptional performance on the international stage.”

Reacting to the honour, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar congratulated Sangokoya on his achievement.

The CAS saidthe award was a testament to the officer’s focus, dedication, and hard work throughout his training.

“The CAS also applauded his family for their support and encouragement, which no doubt played a vital role in his success. Air Marshal Abubakar noted that NAF is proud of this accomplishment, which shines a positive light on both the Service and the nation at large,” the statement added.