To enhance operational readiness and address Nigeria’s security challenges, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deepened international collaboration.
Between April 1 and 4, 2025, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar conducted a four-day visit to Brazil, engaging aerospace and defense stakeholders.
This effort underscores NAF’s commitment to building a resilient, agile force through strategic alliances.
First, Air Marshal Abubakar attended the Latin America Aerospace Defence and Security (LAAD) Fair 2025 in Rio de Janeiro.
At this global innovation hub, he emphasized, “Strategic partnerships remain critical for developing a combat-ready air force in today’s dynamic security environment.”
He highlighted Nigeria and Brazil’s longstanding military ties, stressing mutual benefits from strengthened cooperation.
Next, the CAS met key leaders, including Embraer Defence & Security CEO Bosco Da Costa Junior and Brazilian Air Force representative Lieutenant General Malta.
Discussions focused on sustaining NAF’s A-29 Super Tucano fleet, advancing pilot training, and boosting technical support.
These talks reinforced NAF’s intent to leverage cutting-edge technology for Nigeria’s security needs.
Additionally, Air Marshal Abubakar engaged international exhibitors like Arsenal, FN Herstal, and OGMA, alongside Portuguese Air Force officials. These interactions highlighted NAF’s drive to modernize capabilities through global partnerships.
Following the fair, the delegation toured Embraer’s Gavião Peixoto facility and GESPI’s São José dos Campos site, both renowned for producing advanced aircraft like the KC-390M. During the visits, Abubakar praised both firms for supporting NAF operations and urged continued collaboration to enhance mission efficiency.
Importantly, the visit aligns with NAF’s 2025 Strategic Objectives, which prioritize readiness, modernization, and global cooperation. By strengthening ties with aerospace leaders like Brazil, NAF aims to become a combat-ready force capable of countering Nigeria’s security threats.
Moreover, this initiative reflects NAF’s proactive approach to evolving threats. Air Marshal Abubakar’s engagements in Brazil signal a deliberate shift toward innovation and shared expertise. These partnerships will enable NAF to adopt advanced tactics, improve logistics, and accelerate research and development.
Finally, the CAS’s efforts underscore Nigeria’s broader strategy to integrate global defense advancements. By fostering alliances with nations like Brazil, NAF positions itself to tackle terrorism, insurgency, and cross-border threats more effectively.
In conclusion, Air Marshal Abubakar’s visit marks a pivotal step in NAF’s transformation. Through sustained collaboration, the force aims to achieve operational excellence, ensuring Nigeria’s airspace remains secure amid rising global uncertainties.
