The Chief of the South African Air Force (SAAF), Lieutenant General Wiseman Simo Mbambo, has commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its professionalism, innovation, and operational excellence during an official visit to the Headquarters Tactical Air Command in Makurdi, Benue State.
The visit, held on Monday, October 28, 2025, was aimed at strengthening bilateral defence ties, deepening professional cooperation, and fostering regional airpower collaboration between Nigeria and South Africa.
In a statement released by the Nigerian Air Force on Wednesday via its official X handle, the SAAF chief praised the NAF’s steady growth and strategic development, describing it as proof of Africa’s ability to build indigenous airpower capabilities.
“The Nigerian Air Force has demonstrated remarkable professionalism and growth, reflecting Africa’s capacity to develop its own airpower solutions,” Mbambo said. “Collaboration between our Air Forces is vital to building a safer and more secure continent.”
Lieutenant General Mbambo was accompanied by the NAF Chief of Operations, Air Vice Marshal Francis Edosa, and received by the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal Patrick Obeya, along with other senior NAF officers.
During the visit, the delegation was briefed on the Command’s structure, core functions, and its role in Nigeria’s air defence and internal security operations.
Air Vice Marshal Obeya described the visit as “a symbol of unity and professional solidarity between two leading Air Forces on the African continent,” noting that such engagements would open opportunities for joint training, technological collaboration, and improved operational cooperation.
He emphasised that the partnership would help both countries address shared security challenges and strengthen regional stability.
The visit also featured static and aerial displays at the 131 Engineering Group in Makurdi, highlighting the growing friendship and strategic defence partnership between Nigeria and South Africa, rooted in their mutual commitment to peace and continental security.