By Saheed Adeoye
President Muhammadu Buhari has tasked the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to collaborate and partner with technological-innovative institutions in order to improve on its platforms.
Represented by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Buhari gave the task at the ceremonial parade and aerial display marking the 59th Anniversary Celebration of NAF, otherwise known as NAF Day 2023 in Enugu on Saturday.
He urged NAF to increase its local capacity building through practical and purposeful collaboration and partnership with technological-innovative institutions, industries and individuals in order to improve on its platforms to counter contemporary and emerging security challenges.
According to him, NAF should strive to expand its collaboration beyond the military.
Buhari, who enumerated various fighting aircrafts and other platforms acquired for NAF in his administration, appreciated NAF for locally and ingenious resuscitating some aircrafts in its fighting fleets.
The president also inducted some new platforms of NAF, which included: DA-62 (Special Mission Aircraft) and Wing Loong II (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle).
The event was attended by Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor; the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya; the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao and representative of Chief of Navy Staff.
Various chiefs in special arms of the Nigerian military were also present as well as retired military chiefs of the Army and Navy; all top senior air force officers serving and retired among others.