The Nigerian Air Force is partnering with its Brazilian counterpart as part of efforts to transform the airforce into a more resilient and agile force capable of addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, during a visit to Brazil, reaffirmed the airforce’s commitment to deepening strategic partnerships with friendly nations, as well as key players in the aerospace and defence sectors.
Highlighting the importance of international collaboration, while the airforce chief stated that “in an increasingly complex and dynamic security environment, strategic partnerships remain a critical pillar in building a more agile, innovative, and combat-ready air force.
“Nigeria and Brazil share a long-standing history of military cooperation, and we are here to strengthen that bond for mutual benefit.”
During the visit, the airforce chief participated in the Latin America Aerospace Defence and Security Fair 2025, held in Rio de Janeiro.
At the event, Air Marshal Abubakar held high-level meetings with the President/CEO of Embraer Defence and Security, Mr. Bosco Da Costa, as well as the representative of the Chief of the Brazilian Air Force, Lt. Gen. Malta.
The discussions centred on enhancing the operational and technical capacity of the airforce, particularly in sustaining the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft fleet and other platforms in its inventory.
The engagements also focused on fostering collaboration in pilot, technical and logistics training, as well as research and development initiatives.
Read Also: NDDC provides N10bn lifeline to Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce
Also, Air Marshal Abubakar interacted with several international exhibitors, including Messrs Arsenal, FN Herstal, OGMA, and representatives of the Portuguese Air Force.
These interactions underscored the air chief’s commitment to building a modern and capable airforce that can effectively address Nigeria’s dynamic security landscape.
Following the LAAD Fair, Air Marshal Abubakar visited Embraer Defence and Security’s facility at Gavião Peixoto, where the A-29 Super Tucano and KC-390M aircraft are produced, as well as the facility of GESPI in São José dos Campos.
During the visits, Air Marshal Abubakar appreciated both companies for their continued partnership with the airforce, and urged them to sustain their support in enhancing the airforce’s operational efficiency and mission readiness.
His visit to Brazil forms part of a broader effort to deepen global partnerships in line with the airforce’s 2025 strategic objectives, which prioritise enhanced operational readiness, force modernisation, and international collaboration.
