NAF Seeks Timely Return of C-130H Transport Aircraft from Portugal
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has directed a high-level Nigerian Air Force (NAF) delegation to Portugal to assess the ongoing Periodic Depot Maintenance (PDM) of one of the Service’s C-130H transport aircraft.
The delegation, led by the Chief of Aircraft Engineering, Air Vice Marshal Olufemi Samson Ogunsina, and accompanied by the Commander of the 631 Aircraft Maintenance Depot, Air Commodore Eric Kpokpogri, visited OGMA – Indústria Aeronáutica de Portugal to evaluate the progress of maintenance work on C-130H aircraft, NAF 913.
The Nigerian Air Force’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday.
He said during the visit, the team carried out an extensive inspection of the ongoing maintenance activities and held strategic discussions with the management of the Portuguese aerospace firm on measures to facilitate the timely completion of the depot-level maintenance programme.
The Nigerian Air Force said the engagement reflects the proactive leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff in ensuring close oversight of critical aircraft maintenance projects and guaranteeing that NAF platforms continue to operate in line with the highest international standards of safety, reliability and airworthiness.
The visit also provided an opportunity to reassure the public on the status of the aircraft, which had earlier departed Nigeria for its scheduled depot maintenance programme abroad.
According to the Air Force, despite unforeseen transit challenges, the aircraft successfully arrived at the designated maintenance facility, where it is undergoing comprehensive inspections and maintenance in accordance with global best practices.
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The Service noted that the programme underscores its commitment to safety, technical integrity and long-term operational effectiveness, while ensuring the safe and efficient deployment of its air assets.
Recognising the strategic importance of the C-130H platform to national and regional airlift operations, both the NAF delegation and OGMA officials reviewed measures to sustain the pace of work and facilitate the aircraft’s timely return to operational service.
The visit also highlighted the longstanding partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and international aerospace stakeholders in sustaining critical airlift capabilities and enhancing operational readiness.
Beyond the ongoing maintenance programme, the delegation explored broader areas of cooperation with OGMA and other industry partners, including long-term fleet support, technical training, logistics assistance and future sustainment requirements for the NAF’s C-130H fleet.
Discussions also examined opportunities for collaboration on emerging strategic airlift programmes as part of the Air Force’s drive to build a modern, technologically advanced and mission-ready force.
Speaking on the significance of the visit, Air Marshal Aneke said the Nigerian Air Force remains unwavering in its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aircraft safety and operational readiness.
“The safety of our personnel and the airworthiness of our platforms remain paramount. We will continue to strengthen our maintenance culture and strategic partnerships to ensure that the Nigerian Air Force remains a highly professional, mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in support of national security objectives,” he said.
He added that the ongoing maintenance programme demonstrates the Service’s determination to preserve its critical airlift capabilities while reinforcing public confidence in the professionalism, resilience and technical competence of the Nigerian Air Force.
By PRNigeria
