By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding defence cooperation with Germany, with a focus on training, technology transfer, and operational capacity development.
This was disclosed by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, during a courtesy visit by the Deputy Ambassador of Germany to Nigeria, Johannes Lehne, at the Headquarters of the NAF in Abuja.
The German delegation also included the Defence Adviser, Colonel Boris Bovekemp, and the Leader of the German Technical Advisory Group, Lieutenant Colonel Holger Bernard. The meeting was described as a significant step toward strengthening the longstanding and mutually beneficial defence partnership between both countries.
Air Marshal Aneke commended Germany for its sustained support to the NAF through specialised training programmes, technical assistance, and professional military collaboration. He noted that the partnership has continued to enhance the operational readiness and institutional capacity of the Service.
Reiterating his Command Philosophy, the CAS emphasised the NAF’s commitment to building a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in synergy with other security agencies. He outlined key priorities to include personnel welfare, modernisation of platforms, intelligence-driven operations, predictive maintenance, and the integration of innovation and emerging technologies.
In his remarks, Mr Lehne expressed appreciation for the enduring relationship between Germany and the Nigerian Air Force, reaffirming his country’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote capacity building, professionalism, and technological advancement. He added that sustained collaboration in training and technical development would further enhance operational effectiveness and contribute to regional stability.
The Chief of the Air Staff expressed optimism that the visit would further deepen bilateral defence relations and create new opportunities for strategic cooperation, while also appreciating the German delegation for its continued support and engagement.
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