Defence Diplomacy Is Key to Nigeria’s Security, Says Air Chief
Defence Diplomacy Is Key to Nigeria’s Security, Says Air Chief
Defence Diplomacy Is Key to Nigeria’s Security, Says Air Chief
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to advancing defence diplomacy as a key instrument for strengthening national security. Speaking during an engagement with NAF Defence Attachés and Advisers—held in partnership with the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA)—the CAS underscored the importance of leveraging global defence networks to deepen partnerships, access advanced technologies, and enhance intelligence capabilities. He described Defence Attachés as crucial actors in projecting Nigeria’s strategic interests, shaping international cooperation, and supporting bilateral and multilateral initiatives that drive airpower development.
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Air Marshal Aneke noted that the evolving security environment requires more intelligent, technology-driven approaches aligned with his vision for a proactive and adaptive Air Force. He urged the Attachés to intensify engagements with host nations, defence industries, research institutes, and global security partners to unlock opportunities that strengthen operational readiness, precision strike capability, logistics, training, and maintenance systems. Such efforts, he said, are essential to sustaining the NAF’s counterinsurgency, counter-terrorism, and air interdiction operations while protecting national assets and safeguarding civilian lives.
The meeting also provided a platform for Defence Attachés to review global security trends, emerging threats, and defence innovations with the potential to enhance Nigeria’s air operations. Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed that defence diplomacy remains a strategic national asset—vital for reinforcing security, supporting development, and cementing Nigeria’s place within regional and global defence frameworks. He charged the Attachés to act as effective NAF ambassadors by building mutually beneficial partnerships that advance ongoing reforms, modernisation efforts, and the transformation of national airpower.
Defence Diplomacy Is Key to Nigeria’s Security, Says Air Chief
