The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has advanced Nigeria’s global defence diplomacy with a week-long working visit to the People’s Republic of China, where he engaged leading aviation and defence companies to strengthen the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) operational capacity.
During the visit, which ran from 24–30 August 2025, Air Marshal Abubakar underscored NAF’s resolve to enhance fleet serviceability, expand personnel training, and pursue technology transfer to boost long-term self-reliance.
At a high-level meeting with the China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC) in Beijing, the CAS secured fresh commitments on timely spare parts supply, improved after-sales support, and wider training opportunities for Nigerian air personnel. “This is a major boost to our operational readiness,” he noted.
The delegation also inspected several key aerospace facilities. At Haerbin Aircraft Company, the CAS evaluated the Z-20 utility helicopter, while at Chengdu Aircraft Company, he and his team examined the JF-17B and Block III variants, reviewed the JF-17B prototype, and conducted simulated flights on the JF-17C simulator. He described the engagements as crucial to exploring avenues for technology transfer and industrial cooperation that will drive fleet modernisation.
In addition, the CAS visited AVIC Unmanned Aerial Systems Company, where discussions centred on expanding NAF’s drone capabilities to improve intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) for counterterrorism and internal security missions. “Unmanned systems are increasingly defining the future of air operations,” he observed.
Summarising the outcomes of the visit, Air Marshal Abubakar reaffirmed his vision of building “an agile and resilient Air Force capable of meeting evolving security challenges.” He stressed that deepening international partnerships would ensure improved fleet availability, enhanced maintenance support, and sustained mission readiness.
The successful tour not only consolidated NAF’s defence diplomacy in Asia but also reaffirmed Nigeria’s credibility as a reliable partner in global security cooperation.
