NAF, AUST Begin Talks On Aviation, ICT, Defence Technology

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the African University of Science and Technology (AUST) have commenced discussions on possible collaboration in aviation, information and communication technology (ICT), research and innovation to strengthen Nigeria’s national security capabilities.

The development followed a courtesy visit by AUST President, Professor Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, and his delegation to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja.

During the meeting, Onwualu commended the NAF for its efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s airspace and highlighted the university’s expanding academic programmes, covering undergraduate, postgraduate and professional studies.

The discussions centred on how AUST’s academic and technical expertise could support the NAF’s manpower development and knowledge requirements, particularly in specialised education, research and technological innovation.

According to the NAF, the proposed partnership could provide opportunities for personnel development while promoting the application of contemporary scientific and technological knowledge to aviation and modern airpower.

Aneke welcomed the engagement, stressing the importance of credible academic institutions in advancing the professional and technological development of the Service.

The NAF said the discussions marked an initial step towards identifying practical areas of mutual interest that could promote innovation, strengthen expertise and enhance its capacity to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities.

It added that stronger collaboration between academia and the military would help develop the specialised skills and technological capabilities needed to address emerging security challenges and advance Nigeria’s national security objectives.