Chief Of Air Staff Directs Oversight Of C-130H Maintenance In Portugal, Reaffirms Commitment To Safety and Readiness
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) unwavering commitment to aircraft safety, airworthiness and operational readiness by directing a high-level delegation to Portugal to assess the ongoing Periodic Depot Maintenance (PDM) of C-130H aircraft NAF 913. Led by the Chief of Aircraft Engineering, Air Vice Marshal Olufemi Samson Ogunsina, alongside the Commander, 631 Aircraft Maintenance Depot, Air Commodore Eric Kpokpogri, the delegation engaged Messrs OGMA – Indústria Aeronáutica de Portugal on measures to facilitate the timely completion of the maintenance programme. The visit also provided an opportunity to reassure the public regarding the status of the aircraft, which had earlier proceeded abroad for its scheduled depot-level maintenance, underscoring the NAF’s uncompromising commitment to safety, technical integrity and global best practices in aircraft maintenance.
During the visit, the delegation inspected ongoing maintenance activities and held strategic discussions with OGMA management on optimising timelines and sustaining progress towards the aircraft’s return to service. Recognising the strategic importance of the platform to national and regional airlift operations, both parties reviewed measures aimed at ensuring the successful completion of the maintenance programme. The engagement further highlighted the strong partnership between the NAF and global aerospace stakeholders in sustaining critical air capabilities and enhancing the Service’s capacity to effectively support national security objectives.
Beyond the ongoing maintenance programme, the delegation explored broader areas of cooperation with OGMA and other industry partners in the areas of long-term fleet support, technical training, logistics and future sustainment requirements. Discussions also examined opportunities for collaboration in emerging strategic airlift programmes, reflecting the NAF’s forward-looking approach to capability development. According to the CAS, “The safety of our personnel and the airworthiness of our platforms remain paramount. We will continue to strengthen our maintenance culture and strategic partnerships to ensure that the Nigerian Air Force remains a highly professional, mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in support of national security objectives.” The visit further demonstrates the NAF’s commitment to preserving critical airlift capabilities and inspiring public confidence in its professionalism, resilience and technical competence.
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