Pulse.ng : NAF graduates 24 personnel from pioneer combat lifesaver course

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Thursday in Kaduna graduated 24 of its Special Forces and Regiment personnel from the pioneer Combat Life Saver (CLS) Course.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day training was conducted by the Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine.

The Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Air Training Command(ATC), AVM Ahmed Dari, in his graduation address expressed gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar.

He also commended Abubakar for approving and funding the conduct of the pioneer programme on combat lifesaver course in the Nigerian Air Force.

Dari said, “The CLS course is decisive for the members of the Armed Forces as they provide expert training in life-saving measures tailored to the unique challenges of combat situations.”

According to him, by equipping the military personnel with the skills to administer immediate medical care under fire, CLS course, increased the likelihood of survival for injured comrades on the battlefield.

Dari told the graduates that the training was to enhance the overall readiness and effectiveness of military units by ensuring that individuals were prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to casualties in high-stress environments.

According to him, they will ‘ultimately be saving lives and fostering a culture of care and support within the armed forces.

Dari stated that the NAF Special Forces and Regiment personnel were the recipients of this course.

He recalled that one of the key enablers of the Chief of the Air Staff’s Command Philosophy, which is ‘Deliberate Training and Mission Oriented Force Development’, aligned with the well-organised training.

Dari appreciated the Commandant, Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine and his able team for initiating the idea of running the CLS course.

He also commended Lt.-Col. Holger Bernard the Head of Mission of the German Technical Advisory Group for his collaboration with the school, adding, “which ultimately led to the success of the training we are witnessing today.”

The AOC urged the beneficiaries of the course to reciprocate the gesture by rededicating themselves to the service of the Nigerian Air Force and the nation at large.

Earlier, the Commandant of the School, Air Commodore Rilwanu Abdullahi, said the training was NAF’s effort to enhance its operational capabilities and safeguard the lives of its personnel.

Abdullahi said the training was aimed at enhancing battlefield readiness, reducing preventable casualties, and preserving combat effectiveness.

He added that by investing in CLS education, the NAF underscored its commitment to protecting the lives of its personnel.

Abdullahi said the training came as a result of the identification of the need to stem the rise of combat-related injuries before reaching the hospital or evacuation to a safe zone.

“Investing in CLS education not only strengthens the capabilities of our armed forces but also underscores our commitment to safeguarding the lives of those who laid their lives to protect us,”he said.

Abdullahi said the graduation ceremony serves as a testament to the NAF’s commitment to deliberate training and mission-oriented force development.

” As the NAF continues to enhance its capabilities, the CLS training will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of its personnel,”Abdullahi said.

Also the Head of Mission of the German Technical Advisory Group, Lt.-Col. Holger Bernard, told the graduands that it was their motivation that made the training event a success.

Bernard said training was the prerequisite for safe action and successful mission fulfillment

“Through your commitment and willingness to conduct this training here in Kaduna, you have created the logistical conditions for a successful training.

“For your commitment, dedication and willingness to participate in the training with such a high level of motivation, “Bernard said.