PICTORIAL: Pakistani Military Chief Lauds Nigeria’s Role As Regional Power

The Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza has commended Nigeria for its role as a regional power and a pillar of stability on the African continent.

General Mirza stated this during a high-level courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Abuja.

In a statement by the NAF spokesman, Air Cdre Ehimen Ejodame, General Mirza emphasised the strength, pride, and influence of Nigeria’s military within and beyond Africa.

General Mirza said, “Nigeria is a regional power – a force to be reckoned with”.

He said Pakistan holds the professionalism and resilience of the Nigerian Armed Forces in high regard, and deeply respects Nigeria’s role in promoting regional peace and security.

The visit underscored the enduring defence cooperation between the two nations, with both leaders highlighting shared experiences in counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and strategic capacity-building.

During the meeting, General Mirza showcased Pakistan’s defence manufacturing capabilities, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), trainer and combat aircraft, and anti-aircraft systems, while extending a formal invitation to Air Marshal Abubakar to visit Pakistan for continued strategic dialogue.

In his remarks, Air Marshal Abubakar welcomed the Pakistani delegation and acknowledged the significant contributions of Pakistan to Nigeria’s air power development.

“The Nigerian Air Force has benefited tremendously from our defence partnership with Pakistan – particularly in areas such as pilot training, aircraft acquisition, and logistics,” Abubakar said.

The CAS also highlighted a broad spectrum of opportunities in Nigeria, including its esteemed military training institutions, which could offer valuable benefits to Pakistan.

He expressed strong interest in deepening cooperation in pilot training, research and development (R&D), and aircraft technology, affirming Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance through innovation and international partnerships.

Both military leaders reaffirmed their shared vision for stronger bilateral defence ties.

Key topics discussed included continued engagements on aircraft platforms such as the JF-17 Thunder and Super Mushshak, which are central to Nigeria’s modernisation goals.

They also expressed optimism for a future marked by deeper strategic cooperation, enhanced technological exchange, and a commitment to collective security development, emphasising the importance of mutual trust, shared values, and sustained dialogue to address global challenges and promote regional stability.

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