NAF route march reinforces teamwork, operational readiness – AOC

The Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Air Training Command (ATC), Nigerian Air Force, AVM Esen Efanga, has commended officers, airmen and airwomen for their resilience, discipline and commitment during the successful completion of the Second Quarter Route March Exercise 2026.
Efanga gave the charge on Saturday in Kaduna while addressing personnel at the end of the quarterly exercise.
He expressed gratitude to God for a safe, successful and incident-free exercise and praised participants for their enthusiasm and determination throughout the event.
“The impressive turnout and commitment displayed by all participants reflect the high standards of professionalism and combat readiness expected of personnel of the Nigerian Air Force,” he said.
The AOC described route marching as an integral military tradition aimed at enhancing physical fitness, mental alertness, endurance, teamwork and regimentation among personnel.

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According to him, the exercise also prepares military personnel for the demanding tasks associated with the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
He noted that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducts such exercises periodically to ensure that personnel remain physically and mentally fit for operational effectiveness.
Efanga expressed satisfaction with the level of synergy and esprit de corps demonstrated among personnel of Headquarters Air Training Command and other co-located NAF units in Kaduna.
He said the exercise had once again reinforced the importance of unity, teamwork and mutual support in achieving collective goals.
While congratulating participants on the successful completion of the exercise, the AOC urged personnel to embrace regular physical fitness activities beyond scheduled route marches.
“Let us cultivate a culture of regular exercise and healthy living, as physical fitness remains a critical requirement for operational readiness and mission accomplishment,” he said.
Efanga also appreciated the organisers, medical team, safety officials and all personnel who contributed to the successful conduct of the exercise.
He said their dedication and professionalism ensured a smooth and safe event.
The AOC further encouraged personnel to remain disciplined, professional and committed to the ideals of the Nigerian Air Force as they returned to their respective duties.
He urged them to continue upholding the highest standards of service while contributing to national security and stability.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the second quarter route march exercise brought together personnel of Headquarters Air Training Command and co-located NAF units in Kaduna as part of efforts to sustain fitness, readiness and operational effectiveness.

(NAN)