In a recent high-level engagement, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, emphasized the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to enhancing its international defence collaboration with friendly allied nations. Speaking at a gathering of Defence Attachés representing allied countries accredited to Nigeria, Air Marshal Abubakar underscored the NAF’s readiness to foster cooperation in the realm of international defence and security.
“The NAF stands prepared to collaborate with friendly military forces on global defence and security matters,” affirmed the CAS. “We are equally willing and prepared to extend our support to allied partners in areas where our defence interests align.”
The meeting with Defence Attachés assumes heightened significance given the current global security landscape, which underscores the indispensable role of military forces in maintaining peace and stability.
Air Marshal Abubakar further emphasized the importance of maintaining a diverse range of credible air power capabilities to address security challenges in concert with other security services. Acknowledging that these capabilities often originate from innovations and technological advancements beyond national borders, he highlighted the need for strong alliances facilitated by Defence Attachés.
The CAS urged Defence Attachés to actively pursue their countries’ defence interests within the context of the NAF’s aspirations, fostering a synergistic and symbiotic relationship.
In response, Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, expressed gratitude to the CAS for hosting the Defence Attachés, recognizing that the meeting would bolster the crucial symbiotic relationship essential for addressing contemporary global security challenges. He encouraged Defence Attachés to utilize the forum to seek clarifications and strengthen inter-military cooperation with the NAF.
Colonel Roni Singh Legha, the Defence Attaché of India and the doyen of foreign Defence Attachés in Nigeria, conveyed his enthusiasm for the meeting and the opportunity to further strengthen the existing relationships between their respective countries and the NAF. He assured the CAS of their full cooperation in realizing the NAF’s objective of deepening cooperation.
The gathering brought together 31 Defence Attachés representing allied countries in Nigeria, including India, Germany, Cameroon, Italy, Russia, Ukraine, Egypt, South Africa, among others. The event featured an intensive interactive session and a meaningful exchange of mementos, cementing the bonds of cooperation and mutual understanding between the Nigerian Air Force and its foreign partners.
