NAF Deepens Defence Ties with China in Strategic Modernisation Push
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening defence cooperation with the People’s Republic of China, with a strategic focus on helicopter acquisitions, fighter jet upgrades, and long-term fleet sustainment for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
During a week-long working visit, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, led a high-powered NAF delegation to major aerospace and defence hubs across Beijing, Haerbin, Chengdu, and other cities. The visit aimed to advance bilateral engagements in technology transfer, industrial collaboration, and operational readiness.
A key highlight of the visit was a high-level meeting with the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC) in Beijing. According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, discussions yielded concrete agreements on timely spare parts delivery, enhanced after-sales support, and expanded training programs for NAF personnel.
Read Also:
Air Marshal Abubakar described the talks as “highly productive,” emphasising their significance in boosting Nigeria’s air power capabilities. “This is a major boost to our operational readiness,” he stated.
In Chengdu, the delegation toured advanced aerospace facilities, where Air Marshal Abubakar praised China’s technological prowess. “What we have seen here is a demonstration of China’s advanced aerospace technology.
“For us in the Nigerian Air Force, these visits are about exploring avenues for technology transfer and industrial cooperation that will directly impact our fleet modernisation and long-term self-reliance,” he said.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the visit, the CAS added: “These engagements align with my vision of building an agile and resilient Air Force. By deepening our partnerships with trusted global players, we are ensuring improved fleet availability, enhanced maintenance support, and mission readiness to meet Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.”
Air Commodore Ejodame concluded that the visit not only consolidated Nigeria’s defence diplomacy in Asia but also reaffirmed the NAF’s role as a proactive contributor to global security cooperation. The outcomes pave the way for strategic fleet upgrades and future acquisitions critical to Nigeria’s national defence architecture.
By PRNigeria
