Esther Oseyiomon
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening defence cooperation with China, focusing on capacity building, technical support, and strategic partnerships.
The commitment was highlighted during a courtesy visit by the Chinese Defence Attaché, Senior Colonel Ouyang Haisheng, to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at NAF Headquarters in Abuja.
Air Marshal Aneke described international partnerships as vital for advancing the NAF’s transformation agenda and improving operational readiness. He said collaboration with China has enhanced personnel training, technical expertise, and the acquisition of modern air capabilities.
The CAS emphasized that such alliances help build a professional, agile, and mission-ready air force capable of tackling emerging security challenges across Nigeria and the region.
He added that leveraging foreign partnerships supports the development of indigenous capacity, promotes interoperability with other security agencies, and strengthens joint operations.
Senior Colonel Ouyang Haisheng reaffirmed China’s continued support for the NAF through technology transfer, training initiatives, and sustained military engagement.
Both sides expressed optimism that the collaboration will further strengthen regional security, enhance operational efficiency, and contribute to peacekeeping efforts.
The visit underscores Nigeria’s ongoing defence diplomacy strategy to consolidate existing ties and explore new avenues for military cooperation with global partners.