Abuja, June 18, 2025 – A significant step towards bolstering gender inclusion within military ranks was announced today as the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) formalized an enhanced partnership with the California National Guard (CNG) focused on gender integration, capacity building, and strategic development.
During a courtesy visit to NAF Headquarters, the Adjutant General of the California National Guard, Major General David Baldwin, reaffirmed his organization’s readiness to support the Nigerian Air Force in elevating its operational effectiveness and inclusivity. CNG’s assistance will include the development of NAF’s Air-Ground Integration School, strengthening cyber warfare competencies, and equipping female officers for leadership in critical roles.
Major General Baldwin emphasized the importance of gender balance, noting that CNG “encourages female personnel to head critical positions” and urged NAF to adopt similar policies. He also pledged to host Nigerian personnel at no cost, allowing them to learn directly from Californian counterparts.
Responding on behalf of the Chief of Air Staff, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Remigus Ekeh, expressed deep appreciation for the continued support from the United States, including the delivery of A‑Super Tucano aircraft and specialized training for NAF pilots, engineers, and air-ground specialists. He highlighted this partnership as part of the longstanding State of California–Nigeria programme, dating back to 2006.
According to Air Vice Marshal Ekeh, the collaboration has facilitated over 100 bilateral military engagements covering intelligence, C‑IED training, combat medic preparation, aviation procedures, military law, and emergency response. Planned future co-operations include technical support for C‑130 Hercules aircraft, the supply of spares and firefighting equipment, and more joint exercises.
This alliance underscores the NAF’s commitment to adopting a more inclusive and modern force structure while fortifying its strategic capabilities. It aligns with global trends of integrating women in defense leadership and ensuring that all personnel, regardless of gender, are prepared to contribute at the highest levels. The initiative marks both a leap forward in peacebuilding through inclusion and a new chapter in Nigeria’s collaboration with international partners in defense excellence.
