Nigeria's Flying Officer David Sangokoya awarded International Sword of Honour in UK

NIGERIA Air Force's (Naf) Flying Officer David Sangokoya has been awarded the International Sword of Honour for 2023 at the Royal Air Force College in Cranwell in the  United Kingdom after emerging as the best international cadet on his course.

In a huge honour for Flying Officer Sangokoya, the award was presented to him by the Prince of Wales, Prince William on behalf of King Charles III. Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, Nigeria's chief of air staff has congratulated Flying Officer Sangokoya on his achievement, with the Naf saying it was very proud of its office.

An Raf statement read: “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. Flying Officer David Sangokoya attended the Modularised Initial Officers’ Training 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. The prestigious award was presented to Flying Officer Sangokoya by His Royal Highness, William, the Prince of Wales, on behalf of King Charles III, at the Royal Graduation on 12 September 2024.

“In his congratulatory message to the officer, the chief of the air staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, commended him for this remarkable achievement. According to the chief of air staff, this prestigious recognition is a testament to the officer’s focus, dedication and hard work throughout his training.

“The chief of air staff also applauded his family for their support and encouragement, which no doubt played a vital role in his success. Air Marshal Abubakar noted that the Naf is proud of this accomplishment, which shines a positive light on both the service and the nation at large.”