The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to strengthen its operational capability through a strategic collaboration with the International Test Pilots School (ITPS), Ontario, Canada.
According to a statement from the Service on Saturday, this collaboration was highlighted during a courtesy visit by the Executive Chairman of ITPS, Giorgio Clementi, to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at Headquarters NAF, Abuja, on 24 April 2026.
The engagement builds on earlier high-level interactions during the CAS’s visit to Canada, where both sides explored key areas of cooperation, particularly in specialised pilot training on the M-346FA platform, aircraft engineering, and airworthiness standards.
In his remarks, Air Marshal Aneke underscored that the collaboration is central to the NAF’s modernisation drive, which prioritises the development of a highly skilled, mission-ready, and technologically advanced force.
He emphasised that specialised fighter pilot training on the M-346FA, alongside strengthened airworthiness practices and capacity development for engineers, will significantly enhance operational effectiveness. The CAS further noted that structured training programmes, instructor development, and the integration of advanced simulation technologies are critical enablers for improving safety, efficiency, and mission readiness across NAF operations.
Providing an overview of ITPS capabilities, Mr Clementi highlighted the institution’s expertise in test pilot training, flight testing, and aviation consultancy, reaffirming its readiness to deliver tailored training solutions under a long-term partnership framework.
The visit also featured an interactive session with Branch Chiefs and Directors at Headquarters NAF, where both parties aligned perspectives on implementation modalities.
The engagement concluded with a shared commitment to translate identified areas of cooperation into tangible outcomes, reinforcing the NAF’s resolve to leverage strategic partnerships and global best practices to sustain operational readiness.
