Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, said his administration’s restructuring of the Nigeria Defence Academy in 2011 to integrate women into combatant programme produced the likes of Tolulope Arotile, the Nigeria Airforce Service’s first female combat helicopter pilot, who was buried Thursday at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.

The late pilot, aged 23, was buried in a blaze of full military glory. She received rare commendations from the military hierarchy for her dedication, loyalty and hard work.

In a tribute to Arotile, Jonathan said:

“In 2011 when my administration introduced females into the Nigeria Defence Academy to train as combatants, for the first time, it was to give equal opportunities to all men and women of the armed forces and encourage highly driven female officers like Tolulope to excel in her chosen career, irrespective of their gender.”

“My heart goes out to the family and colleagues of late flying officer, Tolulope Arotile.

“She was a brave patriot who pushed her self beyond limits to demonstrate her uncommon love for our dear nation. In the process, she made us all proud.

“I feel sad that such a young gallant officer would die at the prime of her life. I am however encouraged by the fact that she stood out as a pleasing fulfilment of our dream of an all-embracing Nigeria armed forces devoid of discrimination.

“By dedicating her young life to protect and defend Nigeria’s strength, honour and unity, her memory and legacy will continue to serve as a great inspiration to our youth especially our girls. “