Nigeria’s Chief of Air Staff deepens defence ties during Czech Republic visit

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has advanced Nigeria’s defence diplomacy and capacity-building drive during an official visit to the Czech Republic.

According to a statement signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director Public Relations and Information, the visit focused on strengthening international partnerships to support training, sustainment and operational capability development in line with modern security demands.

During engagements with Aero Vodochody Aerospace, Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed the long-standing collaboration on the overhaul and upgrade of Nigeria’s L-39ZA Albatros trainer aircraft, which the Air Force says remains central to pilot training and operational proficiency. He also stressed the importance of sustained cooperation in technical support, spares provision and training.

Discussions further examined the Nigerian Air Force’s planned transition from the L-39ZA to the more advanced L-39 Skyfox, with the Chief of Air Staff emphasising a phased approach to ensure continuity in pilot training and operational readiness.

The Air Force chief also held high-level talks with the Czech Air Force, where both sides explored expanded cooperation in training, simulator development and logistics support across fixed- and rotary-wing operations. Czech officials described the discussions as a step towards deeper military cooperation.

Additional meetings with defence industry stakeholders focused on emerging technologies,including aviation simulators, parachute training systems and unmanned aerial solutions.

The Nigerian Air Force said the visit underscored its commitment to innovation, self-reliance and strategic international partnerships aimed at strengthening national and regional security.