Flora Onwudiwe 
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Oladayo Amao has stated that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) was set to align with the initiative for Global Air Forces to collaborate on climate change.
The Director of Public Relations and Information(DOPRI) NAF, Air Commodore, Edward Gabkwet, who signed the release, stated that, CAS, made the statement, when he paid a courtesy call on the Royal Air Force (RAF) Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston at his Office in London.
CAS said, “The need for the NAF to device means of conserving energy and take preemptive measures and steps towards safeguarding military hardware and equipment against the effect of climate change is imperative, adding that the NAF will soon commence the implementation of projects to power NAF Bases nationwide.
“Also, undertaking Research and Development on synthetic fuels and electric support equipment. He also stated that through the integration of synthetic and simulation devices, the NAF would work towards the acquisition of new NAF Air Training systems”
He, however, “used the opportunity of the visit to seek for partnership with the RAF in the areas of curriculum development as well as the establishment of NAF Air and Space Power Warfare Centre and the Centre for Air Power Studies, solicited for additional capacity building opportunities in aviation medicine, combat, search and rescue as well as rescue and regiment training for NAF personnel.”
Again, other areas of support and collaboration stated by the Air Chief included. “ aircrew and technical training and support, and provision of training slots in the RAF Centre for Air and Space Power Studies and Air and Space Power Warfare Centre”.
Responding, Wigston congratulated Amao on his appointment and commended him for the renewed synergy and vigour exhibited by the NAF in its counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts; “ Over the years, it has become clear that the NAF is critical towards countering the security challenges in Nigeria.”
On the request for partnership with the RAF in curriculum development and establishment of NAF Air and Space Power Warfare Centre and the Centre for Air Power Studies, Wigston obliged and stated that the, “ NAF could send its personnel to the RAF to acquire knowledge on curriculum development and in the establishment of the Centre”
Earlier, CAS, had extolled the long-standing, mutually beneficial relationship between the NAF , RAF , the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
He expressed appreciation to Sir Wigston for the support in the training of NAF regiment personnel in Force Protection in Complex Air Ground Environment through the British Military Advisor Team”
The CAS also thanked the RAF for the support towards training of Air-Ground Integration support as well as the establishment of an Air-Ground Integration Centre.
‘This assistance will undoubtedly enhance jointness in operations thereby maximizing effects in various theatres, in line with the current posturing of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.’ The CAS further noted that airpower projected through a range of air capabilities has proven indispensable in engaging the myriad of threats in the Country.”
Air Commodore Gabkwet said that the CAS was in London as an attendee for the 21st International Fighter Conference, as the keynote speaker, on the topic: Operational Insights, current Capabilities and Future Priorities of the Nigerian Air Force..The Conference; a veritable platform for military combat aircraft pilots to share ideas and experiences towards achieving higher standards of excellence in flying.
