The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has advanced its fighter pilot training programme through a strategic partnership with the International Test Pilots School (ITPS), Ontario, Canada, as part of efforts to strengthen operational capability.
This development was highlighted during a courtesy visit by ITPS Executive Chairman, Giorgio Clementi, to the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at NAF Headquarters in Abuja on April 24, 2026.
The engagement builds on earlier high-level discussions held during the Air Chief’s visit to Canada, where both parties explored collaboration in specialised pilot training on the M-346FA fighter jet platform, aircraft engineering, and airworthiness standards.
In his remarks, Air Marshal Aneke described the partnership as a key component of the NAF’s ongoing modernisation drive, aimed at developing a highly skilled, mission-ready, and technologically advanced force. He noted that enhanced training on the M-346FA platform, alongside improved airworthiness practices and engineering capacity, would significantly boost operational effectiveness.
The Air Chief further emphasised the importance of structured training programmes, instructor development, and the integration of advanced simulation technologies in improving safety, efficiency, and mission readiness across NAF operations.
Speaking during the visit, Clementi outlined ITPS’s expertise in test pilot training, flight testing, and aviation consultancy, reaffirming the institution’s readiness to deliver customised training solutions under a long-term partnership framework.
The visit also featured an interactive session with Branch Chiefs and Directors at NAF Headquarters, where both sides aligned on implementation strategies. It concluded with a shared commitment to translate identified areas of cooperation into measurable outcomes, reinforcing the NAF’s resolve to leverage strategic partnerships and global best practices in sustaining operational readiness.
