By Mustapha Gruma
“To stay big, you must keep moving.” This guiding principle underscores the importance of purposeful action in preventing stagnation, whether in business, personal or corporate endeavours. It is a philosophy that reflects the current direction of Ahmed Mimi led EX-JAM Association Executive Committee, whose commitment to strategic engagement and continuous consultation has remained steadfast. In line with this vision, the Association recently extended its outreach efforts through high-level visits to key military institutions in Kaduna: the Headquarters of the Air Training Command (ATC) of the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).
The visiting delegation, led by President General Ahmed Mimi, included members of the Project Planning and Execution Committee as well as representatives from the Kaduna Chapter of the Association. At the Air Training Command, the team was warmly received by Air Vice Marshal E.P. Efanga, the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), himself a distinguished member of the Air Force Military School (AFMS) Jos Class of 1984, Blue Squadron. The meeting provided an opportunity for meaningful dialogue centered on initiatives beneficial to both the EX-JAM Association and their alma mater, AFMS Jos.
Top among the issues discussed were EX-JAM-driven projects aimed at revitalising and repositioning the Air Force Military School, Jos. The discussions focused on practical and sustainable project interventions that could significantly improve the institution’s current state and ensure its continued relevance as a center where future leaders are truly trained. Another major topic was the sustainability of the NAF’s EX-JAM absorption policy – the Nigerian Air Force long-standing initiative designed to ensure a seamless transition for AFMS Jos graduates into military service. The EX-JAM Association Executive Committee emphasised the importance of strengthening and institutionalising this policy.
In the same vein, the EX-JAM leadership also paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Air Vice Marshal A.K. Bello, another esteemed alumnus of the AFMS Jos Class of 1984. The visit evolved into a warm and reflective mini-reunion, marked by shared memories and renewed camaraderie. Beyond the nostalgia, the interaction was both purposeful and promising.
Air Vice Marshal Bello expressed strong support for ongoing advocacy efforts aimed at securing a right of first refusal for graduates of the Air Force Military School (AFMS) Jos, Nigerian Military School (NMS) Zaria, Nigerian Navy Military School (NNMS) Ikot Ntuen, and Air Force Girls Military School (AFGMS) Jos, seeking admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy upon completion of their respective Passing Out Parades (POPs). He acknowledged the potential of this initiative to streamline the progression military indoctrinated and well-trained young minds into regular professional officers, thereby strengthening the armed forces’ talent pipeline while eliminating a recruitment pool for insurgency and subversive elements.
Reflecting on his own journey, Air Vice Marshal Bello highlighted the enduring influence of the AFMS Jos motto, “Strive to Excel,” noting that it has been a guiding principle throughout his distinguished career in the Nigerian Air Force. As a senior member of the EX-JAM Association, he reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to supporting the Association’s objectives and contributing to its continued growth and impact.
Practically, the EX-JAM Association’s visits to both the Air Training Command and the Nigerian Defence Academy represent a strategic step forward for the alumni body. The visits demonstrate a proactive approach to institutional collaboration, alumni engagement, and policy advocacy – hallmarks of an association determined not only to preserve its legacy but to actively shape the future of military education and service in Nigeria.
© 2026 front-page.com.ng
