NAF Deepens Defence Ties with China, Germany to Boost Training, Technology
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its international defence engagements with China and Germany as part of efforts to enhance training, technology transfer, and operational capacity in addressing evolving security challenges.
This was disclosed on Wednesday during separate high-level courtesy visits to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja.
During a meeting with the Chinese delegation led by Senior Colonel Ouyang Haisheng, Defence Attaché of China, Air Marshal Aneke emphasised the strategic importance of sustained defence diplomacy in strengthening the NAF’s transformation agenda.
He noted that partnerships with global military powers remain critical in building a highly professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in joint operations.
The CAS stated that enhanced cooperation with China would further support the NAF in areas of specialised training, technological collaboration, and capacity development, particularly as the Service continues to confront complex and asymmetric security threats.
In a separate engagement, the NAF also reaffirmed its commitment to deepening longstanding defence ties with Germany following a visit by the Deputy Ambassador of Germany to Nigeria, Mr Johannes Lehne.
The delegation included Defence Adviser Colonel Boris Bovekemp and the Leader of the German Technical Advisory Group, Lieutenant Colonel Holger Bernard.
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Air Marshal Aneke commended Germany for its sustained support to the NAF through specialised training programmes, technical assistance, and professional military exchanges, noting that such collaboration has significantly enhanced the Service’s operational readiness and institutional strength.
Reiterating his command philosophy, the CAS highlighted the NAF’s focus on building a highly motivated, professional, and combat-ready force.
He identified key priority areas to include personnel welfare, modernisation of platforms, intelligence-driven operations, predictive maintenance, and the integration of innovation and emerging technologies into airpower delivery.
According to him, these initiatives are essential to ensuring that the NAF remains responsive and effective in joint operations with other security agencies, while also contributing to regional peace and global security efforts.
In his remarks, Mr Lehne expressed appreciation for the enduring partnership between Germany and Nigeria, reaffirming his country’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote capacity building, professionalism, and technological advancement within the NAF.
He noted that continued collaboration in training and technical development would further strengthen operational effectiveness and enhance regional stability.
Air Marshal Aneke assured both delegations that their visits would open new avenues for strategic cooperation and deepen bilateral defence relations, expressing gratitude for the continued support and engagement of both China and Germany in the development of the Nigerian Air Force.
By PRNigeria
