By Tola Gbadamosi

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The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has emphasised the importance of maintaining the Nigerian Air Force high standards in safety and academics, warning against any compromise that could undermine them.

He made this statement during his operational visit to the Air Force Comprehensive School, Igbara-Oke, Ondo State.

The visit underscored the Nigerian Air Force unwavering commitment to fostering students’ well-being and academic excellence across its institutions.

“The safety and welfare of students remain my utmost concern,” he stated .

The school, which began operations on October 21, 2024, currently has 82 students as pioneer set. According to the school Commandant, Squadron Leader AbdulAzeez Abioye, the visit by the Chief of Air Staff was routine but vital.

“Whenever a new unit is opened, the Chief takes it upon himself as part of his leadership traits to go there to ensure that the standard of the Nigerian Air Force is maintained,” Abioye explained.

The Commandant revealed that the school was initially slated to open in September 2023 but faced delays due to construction work that required time.

Air Force Comprehensive Schools are strictly boarding schools, while Air Force Secondary Schools are day schools across the country.

Squadron Leader Abioye clarified that the Air Force Comprehensive School, Igbara-Oke aligns with this system and is poised to set a benchmark for others.

Admission into Air Force schools involves processes that begin in February every year.

Prospective students will purchase scratch cards for ₦1,500 and N500 for questions and answers booklet. The prospective students will then log on  to the Air Force’s website provided behind the Scratch Card to complete their registration. They, thereafter, sit for entrance exams around May or June, with successful candidates facing final selection board in July or August.

Parents have been urged to adhere to the age requirements for admission, which is strictly between 11 and 13 years. “If a child is not up to 11 years old by September 2025, they should not bother to apply,” Abioye advised.

One of the remarkable aspects of the Air Force school system is its inclusivity. Out of the 82 students enrolled at the Air Force Comprehensive School, Igbara-Oke, 61 are from civilian parents, while 21 are children of Armed Forces personnel.

The school serves communities within and around Ondo State, including Akure. Previously, parents in the area had to travel to Ipetu-Ijesa for entrance examination into Air Force Secondary schools.

The establishment of the Air Force Comprehensive Schoo,l Igbara-Oke has brought relief and convenience to families in the area.

Highlighting the Air Force commitment to equal opportunities, Squadron Leader Abioye stated, “There is no segregation. All states are represented, except those that choose not to participate in the admission process in the year.”

The visit also provided an opportunity for the Chief of Air Staff to evaluate the school’s facilities and operations. Observations were made, and assurances were given that all identified gaps would be addressed promptly. “When the Chief of the Air Staff comes, the next thing is action on all observations,” the Commandant assured.

With the admission process for the 2025/2026 academic session set to commence in February, parents are encouraged to prepare early. The Commandant reiterated the importance of following guidelines to ensure a seamless admission process.