The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to building a modern, self-reliant, and mission-ready force through strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s indigenous aerospace capabilities and supporting national development.
The commitment was reiterated by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, during a courtesy visit by a delegation from Messrs Calidus of the United Arab Emirates, led by Rear Admiral S.S. Lassa (Rtd), at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force.
During the meeting, both parties explored areas of collaboration to enhance the NAF’s operational effectiveness, with discussions focusing on advanced military training, technology transfer, aircraft maintenance and sustainment, pilot training, and the development of critical aerospace infrastructure.
Air Marshal Aneke said the partnership goes beyond acquiring aviation platforms, stressing that building local technical expertise and strengthening institutional capacity are essential to achieving a sustainable and resilient defence aviation sector capable of supporting Nigeria’s security and development goals.
He added that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises local capacity development, innovation, industrial growth, and sustainable national development.
Speaking on behalf of Messrs Calidus, Rear Admiral Lassa reaffirmed the company’s commitment to a long-term partnership centred on knowledge transfer, innovation, and sustainable capacity building, expressing confidence that the collaboration would strengthen Nigeria’s defence and aviation sectors while contributing to broader technological and economic advancement.
Daily Times
