The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening indigenous aerospace capability and building a modern, self-reliant, and mission-ready force through strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and advancing national development.
According to an official signed statement, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, gave the assurance while receiving a delegation from Messrs Calidus of the United Arab Emirates, led by Rear Admiral SS Lassa (Rtd), during a courtesy visit to the Headquarters Nigerian Air Force.
During the meeting, both parties explored areas of collaboration focused on strengthening the NAF’s operational capabilities while supporting the growth of Nigeria’s aerospace and defence ecosystem.
Air Marshal Aneke stated that the proposed partnership goes beyond the acquisition of aviation platforms to include advanced training, technology transfer, aircraft sustainment support, institutional capacity building, and the development of critical aerospace infrastructure.
He noted that the collaboration would improve operational readiness, expand pilot training opportunities, enhance maintenance capabilities, and promote greater self-reliance within the Nigerian Air Force.
The Chief of the Air Staff further stressed that developing indigenous technical expertise remains essential to building a sustainable and resilient defence aviation sector capable of supporting national security objectives while contributing to Nigeria’s technological advancement, industrial growth, and economic development in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking on behalf of Messrs Calidus, Rear Admiral SS Lassa (Rtd) expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Air Staff for the warm reception and the opportunity to engage with the Nigerian Air Force on areas of mutual interest.
He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to a long-term partnership anchored on knowledge transfer, innovation, and sustainable capacity development, expressing confidence that continued collaboration would strengthen the Nigerian Air Force’s vision of building a resilient and self-reliant aerospace capability.
Rear Admiral Lassa added that the partnership would not only benefit the Nigerian Air Force but also contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s defence and aviation industries, as well as the country’s broader technological and economic development.
