The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, on Thursday commended Nigeria as a “regional power – a force to be reckoned with” in Africa.
General Mirza, who spoke during a meeting with Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Abuja, emphasized the strength, pride, and influence of Nigeria’s military within and beyond Africa.
According to a statement by NAF Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, General Mirza described Nigeria as more than just a country, saying: “Nigeria is a regional power – a force to be reckoned with.”
He added that “Pakistan holds Nigeria in high regard and respects the professionalism and resilience of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), and deeply respect the country’s role in promoting regional peace and security.
“The visit underscored the enduring defence cooperation between the two nations, with both leaders highlighting shared experiences in counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and strategic capacity-building.”
General Mirza showcased Pakistan’s defence manufacturing capabilities, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), trainer and combat aircraft, and anti-aircraft systems, while extending a formal invitation to Air Marshal Abubakar to visit Pakistan for continued strategic dialogue.
In his remarks, Air Marshal Abubakar warmly welcomed the Pakistani delegation and acknowledged the significant contributions of Pakistan to Nigeria’s air power development.
“The Nigerian Air Force has benefited tremendously from our defence partnership with Pakistan – particularly in areas such as pilot training, aircraft acquisition, and logistics,” said the CAS.
The CAS also highlighted a broad spectrum of opportunities in Nigeria, including its esteemed military training institutions, which could offer valuable benefits to Pakistan. He expressed strong interest in deepening cooperation in pilot training, research and development (R&D), and aircraft technology, affirming Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance through innovation and international partnerships.
Both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision for stronger bilateral defence ties. Key topics discussed included continued engagements on aircraft platforms such as the JF-17 Thunder and Super Mushshak, which are central to Nigeria’s modernisation goals. As the visit concluded, both sides expressed optimism for a future marked by deeper strategic cooperation, enhanced technological exchange, and a commitment to collective security development, emphasizing the importance of mutual trust, shared values, and sustained dialogue to address global challenges and promote regional stability.