Academics

Academic Programmes

From foundational strategic thought to executive-level policy engagement — the College's programmes are structured to build airpower judgement at every stage of an officer's career.

NAF BASE, MAKURDI • BENUE STATE • NIGERIA

Flagship Programme

The War Course

The College's principal programme, developing operational and strategic competence in officers earmarked for higher command and staff appointments.

26Weeks

4Phases

9Modules

3Terms

Eligibility & Admission

Open to Wing Commanders and equivalent officers in other Services who have attended the Senior Staff Course. Participants must be medically fit in accordance with NAF Medical Standards. Also open to middle cadre officers from friendly nations.

Method of Instruction

Delivered in English through lectures, seminars, syndicate discussions, plenary sessions and presentations. Participants also conduct exercises, workshops and write papers on key strategic issues, alongside tours within Nigeria and abroad.

Course Structure — 4 Phases, 9 Modules

Foundation Phase

Module 1 — Foundation

Military Professional Phase

Module 2 — Theory of War, Military History and Strategy
Module 3 — National Security, Defence Architecture and Inter-Agency Collaboration
Module 4 — Management, Leadership and Decision Making
Module 5 — Regional and International Studies

III

Operational Art & Campaign Planning Phase

Module 6 — Air Power Studies, Space and Cyber Warfare
Module 7 — Campaign Planning, Management, Operational Art and War Gaming

Joint Exercise Phase

Module 8 — International Law and Peace Support Operations
Module 9 — Joint Operation Planning and Exercises

Institutional Learning Objectives

Operational competencies in air operations

Understanding of the contemporary operating environment

Operational leadership and management competencies

Innovative skills for inter-agency cooperation

Competencies for air operations policy making

Intensified understanding of theories of war and strategy

Study Tours & Visits

Military establishment / operational visit

Internal Security Study Tour, any state of the Federation

Regional Tour to selected African countries

Geo-strategic Tour to a neighbouring country

Strategic installation visit within the country

Fellowship Award

Successful completion of the War Course leads to the award Fellow of the Air Force War College (fawc). Directing Staff who complete at least 3 teaching terms or a one-year tour of study are eligible for Distinguished Fellow, fawc(+).

Command Development

Command Responsibility Course

Prepares officers assuming unit command for the legal, ethical, administrative and leadership demands of command appointments.

—Weeks (TBC)

—Modules (TBC)

Target Audience

Wing Commanders assuming or preparing for unit command appointments.

Objectives

Build competence in the legal, ethical, administrative and welfare responsibilities that accompany unit command.

Executive Seminar

Air Rank Leadership Seminar

A focused executive seminar examining emerging strategic challenges, policy shifts and the future of airpower for serving Air Rank officers.

—Duration (TBC)

Target Audience

Serving Air Rank Officers of the Nigerian Air Force.

Objectives

Engage senior leadership with emerging strategic challenges, policy developments, and the evolving future of airpower.