By Umma Muhammad
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the South African Air Force (SAAF) have agreed to deepen bilateral and regional cooperation aimed at enhancing airpower capabilities across the continent.
The Chief of the South African Air Force, Lt. Gen. Wiseman Simo Mbambo, made this known during his official visit to the Headquarters Tactical Air Command in Makurdi on Monday, October 28, 2025.
Commending NAF’s professionalism and operational excellence, Mbambo said the Nigerian Air Force had demonstrated Africa’s growing ability to develop homegrown airpower solutions.
“The Nigerian Air Force has shown remarkable professionalism and growth, reflecting Africa’s capacity to build its own airpower. Collaboration between our Air Forces is vital to securing a safer continent,” he said.
Welcoming the delegation, Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, AVM Patrick Obeya, described the visit as a symbol of unity and professional solidarity between two leading African Air Forces.
He said the engagement would foster joint training, indigenous technological partnerships, and operational collaboration to tackle shared security threats across the continent.
The visit, which included briefings, aerial displays, and inspections at the 131 Engineering Group, highlighted the deepening strategic partnership between Nigeria and South Africa — a relationship anchored on peace, progress, and regional stability.
