By Grace Izilien
Representatives of the Air Force Military School Alumni Association (Ex-JAM), Class of 1981, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, paid a high-profile courtesy visit to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja, in a historic moment for the alumni family.
According to a statement by the Directorate of Naval Information, the delegation was led by the President of the Ex-JAM 1981 set, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, who also serves as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). He was accompanied by executive members of the association which includes respected retired generals of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Ebie congratulated Vice Admiral Abbas on his appointment, describing it as a landmark achievement not only for the Nigerian Navy but also for the entire Ex-JAM alumni family.
“Today is a moment of collective pride for us as alumni of the Air Force Military School. For the first time, one of our own has risen to the level of a Service Chief, and we could not be prouder,” he said.
Mr. Ebie also expressed the association’s appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment, noting that it reflected confidence in professionalism, competence, and merit within the Armed Forces.
“We are deeply grateful to Mr. President for this appointment. It sends a powerful message to young Nigerians that dedication, discipline, and service are still rewarded at the highest levels,” he added.
Highlighting the growth and unity of the Ex-JAM Association over the years, the alumni leader assured the Chief of the Naval Staff of the group’s continued moral support and prayers.
“We pray for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for you as you shoulder the enormous responsibility of leading the Nigerian Navy at this critical time in our nation’s history,” he said.
Responding, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas warmly welcomed his former schoolmates, describing the visit as deeply personal and encouraging.
“There is something truly special about being recognised by your own community. Seeing my classmates here today reminds me of where we started and the values that shaped us,” the Chief of the Naval Staff remarked.
He acknowledged the weight of responsibility that comes with his new role and encouraged members of the alumni association to remain engaged and supportive through constructive feedback.
“This position comes with great responsibility, and I welcome honest advice and constructive engagement for greater success,” he said.
Vice Admiral Abbas also revealed plans to give back to his alma mater – Air Force Military School Jos, through an impactful legacy project.
“The Air Force Military School laid the foundation for my career and my values. I am committed to instituting a project that will inspire current Gentlemen Junior Airmen, and remind them that their dreams are achievable,” he stated.
The visit was attended by Principal Staff Officers of the Naval Headquarters as well as senior naval officers who are also alumni of the Air Force Military School, further underscoring the school’s enduring influence on national leadership.
For members of the Ex-JAM alumni, the visit went beyond formal protocol, it stood as a celebration of shared history, lifelong bonds, and the powerful reminder that the journey from classroom to national service remains possible for every student who dares to dream.
Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, an EX-Junior Aircraftman of the prestigious Air Force Military School Jos, became the first EX-JAM alumnus to serve as a service chief of the Nigerian armed forces, when he was appointed as Chief of the Naval Staff on 24 October, 2025 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He assumed office as the 25th Chief of the Naval Staff of the Nigerian Navy on 30 October, 2025.
© 2026 front-page.com.ng
