Defence Partnerships With US, Italy, Turkiye Yielding Results – Aneke
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has disclosed that the Nigerian Air Force’s strategic defence partnerships with the United States, Italy and Türkiye are yielding results.
Making the disclosure while commissioning key infrastructure projects at NAF Base Kaduna on February 13, 2026, the CAS said that in addition to the partnerships is the fast-tracked procurement of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper helicopters and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters to boost operational capability across the full spectrum of air operations.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the CAS said the projects are pivotal to preparing a new cadre of pilots who will operate the Service’s incoming advanced platforms.
The commissioned projects comprise six blocks of 12 one-bedroom Student Pilots’ Quarters, a block of six three-bedroom flats initiated by the Ministry of Defence and completed by the NAF, and a 30-unit one-bedroom studio apartment complex for personnel of the Military Training Centre.
He described the completion of the Student Pilots’ Quarters as a strategic investment in operational readiness, noting that it would support the projection of smart and decisive airpower against terrorist threats while safeguarding citizens.
Air Marshal Aneke stressed that the initiative goes beyond physical infrastructure, aligning with his command philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in synergy with surface forces to achieve national security objectives.
He also commended the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for sustained support to national security, particularly through bilateral defence engagements with the Republic of Türkiye.
According to him, these engagements have facilitated the acquisition of advanced helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for the Air Force.
Air Marshal Aneke urged personnel to maintain the facilities with discipline and a strong culture of responsibility, emphasising that the structures should reflect pride and professionalism for both present and future occupants.
He acknowledged the contributions of former CAS Air Marshal HB Abubakar for initiating the project, commended the Logistics Branch, the Air Officer Commanding and contractors for timely delivery, and appreciated the Federal Government and the National Assembly for fiscal support.
In his remarks, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshal EP Efanga, described the projects as a milestone in enhancing operational readiness and personnel welfare, noting that the facilities will significantly strengthen pilot preparation for the advanced aircraft set to redefine the future of the Nigerian Air Force.
