By Victor Akaa
In a significant development, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, received the Chinese Deputy Commander of the People’s Liberation Army, Lieutenant General Jia Zhigang, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja, today. The visit was in response to an invitation from the Chief of Air Staff for the Nigerian Air Force’s 60th anniversary celebration.
According to a statement by the Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Lieutenant General Zhigang expressed gratitude for the invitation and commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their efforts in combating terrorism, insurgency, and other criminal activities.
He emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation in areas such as research, innovation, and the development of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, as well as training programs for younger Nigerian Air Force officers.
General Musa welcomed Lieutenant General Zhigang and his team to Nigeria and the Defence Headquarters, acknowledging the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and China. He expressed appreciation for China’s support in the fight against terrorism and insurgency and praised China’s advancements in military hardware production.
The CDS called for increased military technology cooperation to boost the capacity of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He assured Lieutenant General Zhigang of the AFN’s readiness to engage in exchange and training programs with the People’s Liberation Army to foster a stronger military relationship. Additionally, he expressed his desire for the establishment of Chinese-owned companies in Nigeria to produce military hardware, further strengthening the bilateral military cooperation.
Enugu Reporters reports that this development marks a significant milestone in the Nigeria-China military relationship, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and collaboration in the defence sector.
