The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially released the names of applicants shortlisted for the 2025 Trades and Non-Tradesmen/Women recruitment exercise. This shortlist contains the candidates who are eligible to participate in the upcoming Zonal General Aptitude Test scheduled for Saturday, 13 December 2025.
All shortlisted candidates are expected to report to their designated examination centres by 7:00 a.m. for accreditation. Late entry will not be permitted, and failure to appear automatically disqualifies a candidate from continuing in the recruitment process.
This update provides everything applicants need to know about the Nigerian Air Force shortlisting, including the PDF shortlist, required items, reporting instructions, how to check the NAF shortlist, and preparation tips.
Detailed Overview of the NAF Recruitment Process
The Nigerian Air Force recruitment process usually follows a structured pattern every year, and understanding this process helps applicants know what to expect at each stage. The first phase involves online registration, where interested candidates submit their personal details, qualifications and preferred category (Trades or Non-Trades). Once registration closes, the Air Force screens the applications to ensure candidates meet required standards, especially age, height, education level and physical fitness.
Only applicants who pass this initial screening are shortlisted for the zonal aptitude test. This stage is crucial because it determines who will proceed to medicals and final military training selection. For many candidates, this aptitude test is the most competitive part of the exercise, which is why checking the official shortlist and understanding the exam requirements is important.
Trades vs Non-Trades Roles
The Nigerian Air Force recruitment is divided into two major categories:
1. Trades Applicants
These roles require technical or vocational skills. Applicants usually need trade certifications or evidence of training. Examples include:
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Electricians
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Welders
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Plumbers
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Mechanics and technicians
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Medical assistants
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Drivers
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Caterers
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ICT technicians
Trades roles usually involve specialized aptitude questions related to the field.
2. Non-Trades Applicants
These are general duty positions that do not demand trade certificates. Requirements are simpler, often focusing on:
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Basic academic qualifications
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Physical fitness
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Ability to adapt to training
Both groups write the aptitude test, but the structure and difficulty may vary slightly depending on the role.
Understanding where you fall helps you prepare better and know what the Air Force expects from you.
List of Eligible Applicants for the 2025 Nigerian Air Force Zonal Aptitude Test
The Nigerian Air Force has shortlisted candidates from across all Nigerian states for the 2025 recruitment stage. These candidates met the screening requirements during the earlier application phase and are now invited for the next step of the recruitment process.
Shortlisted applicants are grouped by state, and each candidate must sit for the aptitude test at their assigned NAF zonal examination centre.
Nigerian Air Force Shortlist 2025 PDF Download (State-by-State)
Click your state to download and view the official NAF shortlist:
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Bauchi
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Benin
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Enugu
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Ikeja
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Ilorin
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Ipetu-Ijesha
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Jos
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Kaduna
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Kano
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Maiduguri
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Makurdi
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Minna
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Port Harcourt
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Sokoto
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Yola
Each PDF contains the names, registration numbers, and designated exam locations for candidates. Applicants must check carefully and take note of their centre.
What to Expect on the NAF Aptitude Test Day
The Nigerian Air Force aptitude test follows a structured process. Knowing what to expect helps reduce tension and ensures you arrive fully prepared.
1. Arrival and Accreditation
Candidates must arrive before 7:00 a.m. for:
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Identity verification
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Checking of acknowledgment slips
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Passport photo verification
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Biometrics if required
Latecomers are usually denied entry.
2. Briefing Session
Officials will explain:
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Exam rules
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Duration of the test
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Prohibited items
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How to fill answer sheets
This briefing is very important, especially for first-time applicants.
3. Exam Structure
The aptitude test commonly covers:
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English language
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Mathematics / Quantitative reasoning
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General knowledge
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Current affairs
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Basic military awareness
The number of questions varies by year, but the test usually lasts 45–60 minutes.
4. Conduct Expected from Candidates
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Remain orderly during accreditation
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Listen to instructions carefully
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Avoid discussing exam questions
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Follow exit procedures after submitting
Candidates who violate rules may be disqualified on the spot.
Items Required for the Nigerian Air Force 2025 Aptitude Test
All shortlisted candidates must come with the following documents and materials:
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A pencil
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An eraser
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NAF Application Acknowledgment Card
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Two recent passport photographs (signed by the applicant on the back)
Candidates without these items may not be allowed into the examination hall.
Important: The Nigerian Air Force has emphasized that all recruitment activities are completely free. No applicant should pay money to anyone promising “help,” “slot,” or “special assistance.”
How to Check the Nigerian Air Force Shortlisted Candidates 2025
Follow the steps below to check your name on the official NAF shortlist:
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Visit the Nigerian Air Force recruitment portal:
👉 https://nafrecruitment.airforce.mil.ng -
Scroll to the section labeled 2025 Airmen/Airwomen Shortlist.
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Select and download the PDF file for your state.
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Open the PDF and search for your name or application number.
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Take note of your exam centre and reporting time.
If your name appears on the list, start preparing immediately for the zonal aptitude test.
What to Expect at the 2025 NAF Aptitude Test
The aptitude test usually covers subjects such as:
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Basic English
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Mathematics
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General knowledge
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Current affairs
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Military knowledge (basic understanding)
The questions are straightforward but competitive, as thousands of applicants write the same examination nationwide.
Candidates are advised to:
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Arrive early
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Avoid carrying prohibited items
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Follow all official instructions from officers at the venue
Good conduct is essential, as disciplinary behavior is assessed at each stage.
Why You Should Prepare With NAF Past Questions
Every year, many applicants fail the aptitude test due to poor preparation. The recruitment exam follows a consistent pattern, and using updated Nigerian Air Force Past Questions and Answers (PDF) helps you:
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Understand the exam style
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Practice likely questions
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Improve speed and accuracy
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Boost your confidence before exam day
Serious candidates are encouraged to study past questions thoroughly.
Next Steps After the Aptitude Test
Candidates who pass the aptitude test will move to the next stages, which typically include:
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Physical fitness assessment
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Medical screening
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Document verification
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Interview and final selection
Only candidates who complete all stages successfully will be shortlisted for NAF training.
Final Advice for All Shortlisted Applicants
The Nigerian Air Force recruitment process is strict and merit-based. To avoid disqualification:
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Attend your exam centre early
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Bring all required documents
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Follow instructions from NAF officials
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Avoid paying anyone for assistance
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Prepare thoroughly for the test
Your performance in the aptitude test plays a major role in determining whether you move to the next recruitment phase.









