Turkish Ambassador Reaffirms Commitment to Advancing Defense Partnership with Nigerian Air Force (Pictures)
In a significant diplomatic move, Mr Hidayet Bayraktar, the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Turkey to Nigeria, has reaffirmed Turkey’s strong commitment to strengthening the existing defence collaboration between the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Turkish Government, with a focus on transferring cutting-edge defence technology.
This is contained in a press statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet on Wednesday.
According to the statement, Ambassador Bayraktar made this declaration during his courtesy visit to NAF Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
Emphasizing the longstanding cooperation between Turkey and NAF, he expressed his determination to elevate the partnership to new heights.
Notably, the Ambassador assured that Turkey’s support would extend beyond the sale of defence products, with a willingness to assist NAF in developing its capacity to manufacture and maintain certain defence products.
Addressing the ongoing TK-1 helicopter procurement agreement with NAF, Ambassador Bayraktar vowed to ensure the timely delivery of the platforms as scheduled and their continued operational efficiency through an effective maintenance strategy in collaboration with NAF.
In response, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), expressed gratitude to Ambassador Bayraktar for his assurances.
CAS Abubakar underscored the NAF’s commitment to leveraging these opportunities to enhance its Research and Development (R&D) initiatives.
He highlighted that the offer of technology transfer aligns seamlessly with one of the key principles of his Command Philosophy, which prioritizes R&D driven by cutting-edge technology and valuable lessons learned.
CAS Abubakar further emphasized the critical role played by the Turkish Government’s support in sustaining Nigeria’s ongoing counterinsurgency operations.
He urged Ambassador Bayraktar to utilize his diplomatic influence to expedite the delivery of the six TK-1 helicopters to Nigeria.
During the visit, CAS Abubakar took the opportunity to underscore the NAF’s unwavering determination to harness the potential presented by key partners, aiming to develop and enhance the NAF’s capabilities for safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The visit was also marked by a poignant moment when Ambassador Bayraktar laid a symbolic wreath at the NAF Memorial Arcade, paying solemn tribute to NAF personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of Nigeria.
This renewed commitment from the Turkish Ambassador signifies a positive step towards bolstering Nigeria’s defence capabilities and fostering international cooperation.