NAF Strengthen Operations Medicine To Support Counter-Insurgency, National Development

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has continued to reinforce its commitment to national security and development through deliberate investment in human capacity, as demonstrated by the successful completion of Courses 7/2026 at the Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine (NAFSMSAM), Kaduna, on 15 April 2026. The A1 Sundry Medical Upgrading Course, which commenced on 12 March 2026, brought together 22 airmen and airwomen from diverse medical trades, all of whom successfully completed a rigorous month-long programme.

The graduation ceremony, attended by senior commanders and dignitaries, was held under the Special Guest of Honour, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, represented by the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshal EP Efanga. In his welcome address, the Commandant of the School, Air Vice Marshal AC Ekpe, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to delivering high-quality, mission-oriented medical training in support of NAF operations.

This milestone underscores the NAF’s strategic focus on enhancing operational effectiveness through specialized medical training, an essential enabler in ongoing counter-insurgency and internal security operations across the country. The graduates, drawn from critical fields including medical laboratory technology, hygiene, pharmacy, dental care, and veterinary services, are now better equipped to provide frontline medical support, sustain troop morale, and ensure force readiness in complex operational environments.

Their enhanced capabilities directly contribute to mission success, particularly in austere and high-risk theatres where timely and efficient medical services are indispensable.

In line with the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the NAF remains steadfast in building a highly professional, resilient, and mission-oriented force anchored on its core values of integrity, service, and excellence.

NAF

The CAS, in his remarks, emphasized the responsibility placed on the graduates to translate acquired knowledge into impactful service delivery, thereby strengthening the Service’s capacity and contributing meaningfully to national development. As the NAF continues to adapt to evolving security challenges, such targeted training initiatives remain pivotal in sustaining operational superiority and advancing Nigeria’s broader security and development objectives.

Africa CDC Appoints Former Vice-President Osinbajo As Senior Strategic Adviser

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has appointed former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo as senior strategic adviser to director-general Jean Kaseya, reinforcing leadership capacity for continental health priorities.

The announcement was made by Margaret Edwin, director of communication and public information at Africa CDC, in a statement issued on Monday.

MsEdwin explained that the appointment aligned with the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda aimed at strengthening Africa’s voice in global health, boosting domestic financing, and expanding local production of health commodities.

She said Mr Osinbajo would advise on Africa’s positioning in global health architecture reforms, sustainable health financing, local manufacturing, and building strategic partnerships to advance continental health resilience and cooperation goals.

She said that the former vice-president brought exceptional experience across governance, finance, law, and diplomacy, adding that his leadership would be critical as Africa seeks greater authority in shaping its health future.

“This appointment reflects Africa CDC’s commitment to mobilising African leadership of the highest calibre in service of the continent’s health security, sovereignty, and development,” she said.

She added that his experience in public policy and governance would support efforts to build resilient health systems across African Union member states, particularly in pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response initiatives.

Osinbajo

Mr Osinbajo, a Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, served as Nigeria’s vice-president from 2015 to 2023, contributing to policy and governance reforms during his tenure.

He also served as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, where he played significant roles in legal administration and institutional reforms within the state government structure.

During his time in government, he chaired Nigeria’s Economic Sustainability Committee, led ease-of-doing-business reforms, and advanced social investment programmes while coordinating key economic policies across multiple sectors nationwide and driving inclusive economic growth.

Resident Doctors Ready For Nationwide Strike April 7

Doctors ready for nationwide strike. The planned action will commence at 12 a.m. Tuesday, and will involve members from federal, state, and private institutions.

According to the association, the decision follows the Federal Government’s review of the Professional Allowance Table policy framework and constructive dialogue.

Shuaibu Ibrahim, NARD secretary general, disclosed in a statement on Saturday that the decision to begin a strike followed extensive consultations among members nationwide, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and collaboration.

He explained the resolution was reached during an extraordinary national executive council meeting held virtually, where participants encouraged continued engagement with the government to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for doctors and patients.

According to the association, the planned action will commence at 12 a.m. Tuesday and will involve members across federal, state, and private institutions, while maintaining openness to dialogue and ongoing, timely resolution efforts.

The association emphasised the importance of reinstating the Professional Allowance Table, describing it as vital to enhancing welfare, boosting morale, and supporting the retention of skilled medical professionals nationwide.

It highlighted the need for prompt payment of promotion and salary arrears owed to resident doctors and expressed optimism that ongoing discussions would facilitate resolutions benefiting practitioners and the healthcare system.

NARD further encouraged the timely release of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, noting that improved funding would enhance training opportunities, professional development, and overall capacity in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

The association reiterated the importance of settling outstanding allowance arrears, expressing confidence that collaborative efforts among stakeholders would ease financial pressures and reinforce commitment among resident doctors serving communities nationwide.

Members were encouraged to remain united and focused, as leadership underscored that ongoing engagement was aimed at securing fairness, strengthening working conditions, and promoting a more resilient and responsive healthcare system nationwide.

The association affirmed its commitment to sustained dialogue with authorities, expressed optimism that efforts would yield positive outcomes, and reinforced its role in advancing the welfare and professional interests of members.

Resident Doctors

The Professional Allowance Table is designed to standardise doctors’ remuneration, ensuring consistent payments and supporting improved administration across the national healthcare system.

Observers note that ongoing discussions between NARD and the Federal Government continue to provide opportunities to resolve welfare concerns, strengthen cooperation, and ensure the uninterrupted delivery of quality healthcare services nationwide.