Nigerian Air Force launches double empowerment scheme for barrack youths

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched a significant initiative to combat unemployment and foster self-reliance among youths residing in its barracks.

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This is a landmark initiative deliberately designed to uplift, inspire, and equip young people within our base communities with the skills and opportunities they require to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. Today’s event goes beyond the launch of a programme; it represents the ignition of hope, the unlocking of latent potential, and a renewed commitment to the welfare and future of Nigerian Air Force personnel and their families.

Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, the Chief of the Air Staff, unveiled two key programs: the CAS Fellowship Programme and the CAS Youth Technical and Vocational Skills Development Programme. These initiatives are designed to equip young individuals with practical skills, mentorship, and opportunities necessary to thrive in a competitive job market.

Air Marshal Aneke stated that the NAF recognizes the importance of human capital development, emphasizing that the strength of a military institution extends beyond its operational capabilities to the well-being of its people. He described the program as a "landmark initiative" aimed at igniting hope and unlocking the potential of young people within NAF communities.

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I will find a way to support the children of our personnel, who are brave men and women who bear the silent weight of deployments, relocations, and the sacrifices that come with military service. This is the reality that inspired the vision behind CASYEP. Within our barracks reside young men and women of exceptional promise. They are immensely talented, capable and promising young individuals. With the right support, mentorship and exposure, they can achieve remarkable success and make meaningful contributions to national development.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, commended the NAF's efforts, noting that the program complements the federal government's broader goals for youth empowerment through skills acquisition, education, and entrepreneurship. The beneficiaries are urged to approach the opportunity with dedication and discipline.

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This initiative is not conceived as a one-off intervention, but as a sustainable framework for continuous talent identification, development and empowerment. Our goal is to nurture a generation of confident, self-reliant and purpose-driven dependents who will excel in their chosen fields of endeavour.