By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening operational readiness and enhancing bilateral defence relations following a high-level engagement with the Pakistan Air Force aimed at expanding air power cooperation and interoperability.
The Deputy Chief of the Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force, Air Marshal Zaeem Afzal, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at Headquarters NAF in Abuja on April 22, 2026.
In an official signed statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force disclosed that the engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to deepen strategic partnerships that enhance mission effectiveness, training, and operational capability.
Air Marshal Aneke described the visit as timely and significant, noting that the longstanding relationship between both air forces has continued to yield measurable gains in training, capacity development, and operational efficiency. He stressed the need to expand cooperation frameworks in response to evolving security challenges.
According to him, stronger collaboration among allied air forces is essential to ensuring responsiveness and operational agility, adding that the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to deepening partnerships that support self-reliance and improved mission outcomes.
He also expressed appreciation for the sustained support of the Pakistan Air Force in enhancing the professional competence of Nigerian Air Force personnel and strengthening key operational capabilities.
In his remarks, Air Marshal Zaeem Afzal commended the Nigerian Air Force for its professionalism and hospitality, describing the discussions as productive and forward-looking. He reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening the existing partnership for mutual benefit.
The visit, which included senior officers of the Nigerian Air Force and the Defence Adviser of Pakistan to Nigeria, Colonel Kamran Mushtaq, further reinforced both nations’ resolve to advance strategic military cooperation in support of regional stability and global security.
