New Era at NAFRC: New Commandant Takes Over at Armed Forces Resettlement Centre

Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo has formally assumed duty as the new Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), marking a fresh phase in the leadership of the institution.

His appointment is part of a broader strategic redeployment of senior officers approved by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, according to a statement released by the Nigerian Air Force on Saturday.

Established originally as a rehabilitation facility for demobilised soldiers, the Centre has expanded over the years into a full-fledged resettlement institution, now offering vocational training, skills acquisition programmes, and entrepreneurship development initiatives. It also hosts the Senior Officers Entrepreneurship and Management Training programme.

The Nigerian Air Force explained that the redeployment is designed to enhance leadership efficiency and align operations with the mandate of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Shortly after assuming office, AVM Ilo embarked on an extensive familiarisation tour of the Centre, inspecting facilities, engaging with personnel and staff, and gaining direct insight into ongoing resettlement, vocational, and skills development activities.

The tour enabled him to assess operational strengths, identify immediate areas of concern, and outline long-term measures required to reinforce the Centre’s core mission of preparing retiring and retired military personnel for a seamless and productive transition into civilian life.

Reiterating his commitment to strengthening the institution, AVM Ilo pledged to prioritise the creation of a supportive learning environment for course participants, alongside enhanced welfare and improved working conditions for staff and instructors.

He emphasised that strong leadership, sustained investment in training infrastructure, and the wellbeing of both trainees and facilitators are essential to building capacity, supporting national security objectives, and contributing to broader national development goals.