Flying Officer David Sangokoya of the Nigerian Air Force has been honoured with the prestigious International Sword of Honour for 2023 at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell in the United Kingdom.
This remarkable achievement was revealed through a statement shared on the Nigerian Air Force’s official Facebook page on Friday.
The statement, titled, ‘NAF Officer Awarded 2023 International Sword of Honour at RAF College Cranwell UK’, highlighted Sangokoya’s outstanding performance during the Modularised Initial Officers’ Training Course 22, which ran from March to September 2023.
Sangokoya, attending as a cadet, emerged as the Best International Cadet among his peers.
According to the Nigerian Air Force, the Royal Air Force College graduates up to eight courses annually, and the International Sword of Honour is awarded to the most outstanding cadet from the international cohort for that year.
Sangokoya’s achievement signifies his exceptional skills and dedication, setting him apart from cadets from various nations.
The award was personally presented by Prince William, the Prince of Wales, who stood in for King Charles III during the Royal Graduation Ceremony, held on September 12, 2024.
“A Nigerian Air Force officer has been awarded the International Sword of Honour for 2023 at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell (RAFCC), United Kingdom (UK),” the statement read. “Flying Officer David Sangokoya attended the Modularised Initial Officers’ Training (MIOT) Course 22 as a cadet from March to September 2023, emerging as the Best International Cadet on the Course.
“The RAFCC graduates up to eight courses yearly, and the International Sword of Honour goes to the most outstanding amongst the award-winning international cadets for the year.”
In response to this accolade, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, expressed his pride and admiration for Sangokoya’s achievement.
He conveyed his congratulations in a message where he emphasized the officer’s hard work, focus, and dedication throughout his training.
“In his congratulatory message to the officer, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, commended him for this remarkable achievement,” the statement continued. “According to the CAS, this prestigious recognition is a testament to the officer’s focus, dedication, and hard work throughout his training.”
The statement also acknowledged the role of Sangokoya’s family in supporting him through his training, with Air Marshal Abubakar noting that their encouragement had played a significant part in his success.
He further added that the Nigerian Air Force, along with the entire nation, takes immense pride in this accomplishment.
“The CAS also applauded his family for their support and encouragement, which no doubt played a vital role in his success. Air Marshal Abubakar noted that NAF is proud of this accomplishment, which shines a positive light on both the Service and the nation at large.”
Flying Officer David Sangokoya’s achievement is a significant milestone for both the Nigerian Air Force and the nation, further cementing the country’s reputation on the global stage.
