The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has received the Air Mobile First Aid Unit (AMFAU), a state-of-the-art medical facility designed to enhance rapid emergency response capabilities. This advanced unit was provided by the German Technical Advisory Group (GTAG) under a bilateral agreement between Nigeria and Germany.
Enhancing Medical Support for the Armed Forces
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, represented by Maj.-Gen. Muhammad Abdullahi, Director of Communication, Defence Headquarters, emphasized the significance of the new unit in the fight against insurgency and other security threats in Nigeria.
Musa highlighted the substantial benefits Nigeria’s Armed Forces have gained from the Equipment Aid Programme (EAP), which has supported various projects, including:
- The Medical Emergency Project at Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC)
- The Mechatronics Project at AFEME
- The Counter Improvised Explosive Devices initiative at NASME
- The Reconnaissance Wing Project at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI)
According to Musa, the AMFAU will play a crucial role in handling medical emergencies by providing immediate treatment, including minor surgeries, to wounded personnel.
“The unit can be deployed for a maximum of 72 hours to any part of the country and consists of a triage area, an operating theatre, and a recovery ward,” Musa said.
He further noted that the project includes training, implementation, and the establishment of a molecular medical treatment facility to ensure rapid medical support for Armed Forces personnel.
Capacity Building Through Training
Under the bilateral agreement, several military personnel have already undergone specialized training in Aero Medical Emergency, Tactical Combat Casualty Care, and the operation of medical utility vehicles. The initiative also includes the provision of medical tentages and the construction of a training hall.
The CDS expressed gratitude to the German government for its continuous support, assuring that the NAF will maximize the benefits of the new facility.
Bilateral Cooperation Between Nigeria and Germany
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, represented by Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Air Training Command, AVM Ahmad Dari, recalled that the Nigeria-Germany bilateral agreement was signed in Abuja on December 13, 2012.
“This bilateral agreement led to the creation of ‘Project 1,’ a project arrangement within the German Equipment Aid Programme covering the period 2021-2024,” Abubakar stated.
The AMFAU is designed to support emergency medical care in internal security operations, crisis management, and national defense.
“This state-of-the-art facility is equipped with modern medical equipment and staffed by trained medical personnel,” he added.
The Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine has been offering short-term emergency medicine courses, with plans to extend training to non-medical personnel, further boosting NAF’s capacity to handle medical emergencies.
Germany’s Commitment to Peace and Security
The German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs. Ammett Gunthier, represented by Col. Boris Bovenkamp, German Military Attaché to Nigeria, reiterated Germany’s commitment to supporting peace, security, and humanitarian efforts worldwide.
Gunthier clarified that while Germany does not have a direct combat mission in Nigeria, it has been providing essential military support through training, technology transfer, and medical assistance.
“As Germany continues its international security efforts, cooperation with Nigeria will remain a priority. Strengthening diplomatic, military, and humanitarian ties will benefit both nations and contribute to a more stable and peaceful future,” she said.
Ensuring the Longevity of the AMFAU
The Commandant of the Nigerian Air Force School of Medical Sciences and Aviation Medicine, Air Commodore Rilwanu Abdullah, assured that the facility would be well-maintained and effectively utilized.
He emphasized that the unit is crucial for training military personnel in handling medical emergencies during both peacetime and combat situations.
Abdullah also acknowledged the contributions of the Chief of Air Staff in revitalizing academic activities at the school, which led to the accreditation of four medical courses in 2024.
“I once again congratulate the German Government through the GTAG for fulfilling their part of the partnership,” he said.
Strengthening NAF’s Medical Capabilities
With the AMFAU now operational, the Nigerian Air Force is set to enhance its medical capabilities, ensuring improved healthcare for personnel while reinforcing national security efforts. The successful execution of this initiative underscores the value of international collaboration in bolstering military efficiency and emergency response.
