The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening military ties with the People’s Republic of China to boost its operational efficiency.
This development followed a high-level courtesy visit by the Chinese Defence Attaché, Senior Colonel Ouyang Haisheng, to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja on March 25, 2026.
During the engagement, both leaders emphasized the vital role of sustained defence diplomacy in tackling evolving security threats. The discussions centered on expanding existing frameworks for specialized training, technological exchange, and capacity building. This collaboration is expected to provide the NAF with advanced technical expertise and equipment maintenance capabilities essential for modern aerial warfare.
Air Marshal Aneke highlighted that international partnerships are a cornerstone of his administration’s transformation agenda. He noted that integrating global best practices and cutting-edge technology is crucial for evolving the NAF into a more agile and mission-ready force. The CAS stressed that these alliances allow the Service to remain proactive rather than reactive in the face of contemporary insurgencies.
The partnership also aims to enhance the NAF’s ability to deliver decisive airpower effects in coordination with other Nigerian security agencies. By leveraging Chinese military advancements, the NAF seeks to improve its surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities, ensuring a more robust response to internal security challenges and regional instability.
In his closing remarks, the CAS reiterated that a professional and well-equipped Air Force contributes significantly to both national stability and global security efforts. The visit concludes a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at positioning the NAF as a premier air power on the continent through strategic synergy and technological innovation.
