Flying Officer David Sangokoya of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the first African cadet to win the prestigious International Cadet Sword of Honour from the Royal Air Force College Cranwell in the United Kingdom.
The award, which recognizes exceptional leadership and academic excellence, was presented to Flying Officer Sangokoya for his outstanding performance in the Leadership and Training Course for the 2023-2024 academic year.
His achievement as the top international student marks a historic moment, as no African cadet had ever received this honour since the academy’s founding over a century ago.
In a special commendation ceremony held at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja, Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, praised Sangokoya’s accomplishment as “truly ground-breaking.”
He said: “This feat underscores the excellence existing within the Nigerian Air Force, proving that our officers and cadets can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world.”
Abubakar said Sangokoya had set a new standard, not just for his peers but for every other cadet and officer that will come after him.
According to him, the officer’s accomplishment is a “powerful” reminder that no goal is out of reach when one is armed with dedication, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
“Your journey as an officer has begun with this prestigious accolade. But the true measure of your success will be seen in how you serve, lead, and contribute to the mission of the Nigerian Air Force and the defence of our great nation,” Abubakar said.
The CAS thanked the UK Government for its “unwavering support in providing world-class training opportunities to our (Nigerian) personnel”.
He noted that the support had helped NAF officers and men to gain invaluable skills and knowledge, “strengthening not only our bilateral ties but also our collective ability to address global security challenges”.
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