Nigeria regional power, pillar of stability in Africa, says Pakistani military chief

General Sahir Mirza, Chairman of Pakistan’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, has described Nigeria as a regional power and a pillar of stability on the African continent. During a courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, at the Nigerian Air Force headquarters in Abuja, General Mirza commended the professionalism and resilience of the Nigerian Armed Forces, highlighting their influence within and beyond Africa. He emphasized the enduring defense cooperation between Nigeria and Pakistan, particularly in areas such as counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and strategic capacity-building. General Mirza also showcased Pakistan’s defense manufacturing capabilities, including unmanned aerial vehicles, trainer and combat aircraft, and anti-aircraft systems, extending an invitation to Nigeria’s air chief for continued strategic dialogue. In response, Air Marshal Abubakar acknowledged the significant contributions of Pakistan to Nigeria’s air power development, noting benefits in pilot training, aircraft acquisition, and logistics. He expressed interest in deepening cooperation in pilot training, research and development, and aircraft technology, affirming Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance through innovation and international partnerships. Both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision for stronger bilateral defense ties, discussing continued engagements on aircraft platforms such as the JF-17 Thunder and Super Mushshak, which are central to Nigeria’s modernization goals. 