Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Gwabin Musa has hosted the Deputy Commander of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force of China, Lieutenant General Jia Zhigang at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja in a bid to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance military cooperation between the two countries.
Lieutenant General Zhigang’s visit comes in the wake of the Nigerian Air Force’s 60th-anniversary celebrations, for which he was extended an invitation by the Chief of Air Staff.
According to a statement signed by Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Lieutenant General Zhigang lauded the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) in combating terrorism, insurgency, and other criminal activities.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration in research, innovation, development of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and the training of young Nigerian Air Force officers. In response, General CG Musa warmly welcomed Lieutenant General Zhigang and his delegation, expressed appreciation for China’s support in Nigeria’s counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts and commended China’s advancements in military hardware production.
General Musa advocated for an exchange of military technology to bolster the capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces and assured Lieutenant General Zhigang of Nigeria’s readiness to engage in exchange and training programmes with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Furthermore, he expressed the desire for Chinese-owned companies to establish operations in Nigeria, specifically focusing on the production of military hardware.
The meeting between the Nigerian Defence Chief and the Chinese Deputy Air Chief underscores the commitment of both nations to deepening cooperation in defense and security matters, paving the way for mutual benefits and strengthened strategic ties.
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