The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Hidayet Bayraktar, has conveyed his country’s eagerness to enhance the existing defense cooperation between the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Turkish Government through technology transfer.
Ambassador Bayraktar made this declaration during a diplomatic visit to NAF Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
As per a statement from the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Cdre Edward Gabkwet, the Ambassador acknowledged Turkey’s history of collaboration with the NAF and expressed a commitment to elevating this partnership to a more advanced level.
He also affirmed that Turkey’s support would extend beyond the supply of defense products, as they are willing to assist the NAF in bolstering its capabilities for manufacturing and maintaining certain defense items.
Regarding the existing agreement for the procurement of TK-1 helicopters with the NAF, Ambassador Bayraktar pledged to ensure the punctual delivery of these aircraft and their continued maintenance through effective strategies in collaboration with the NAF.
In response, Nigeria’s Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, expressed gratitude for the Ambassador’s assurances and emphasized that the NAF is determined to capitalize on these opportunities to enhance its Research and Development (R&D) initiatives.
The CAS underscored the alignment between technology transfer and one of the fundamental principles of his Command Philosophy, which emphasizes the significance of R&D using cutting-edge technology and acquired knowledge.
Furthermore, Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the crucial role played by the Turkish Government in sustaining the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria. He called upon the Ambassador to use his diplomatic influence to expedite the delivery of the six TK-1 helicopters to Nigeria.
The CAS reiterated the NAF’s unwavering commitment to leveraging strategic partnerships to develop and enhance its capabilities in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
