NAF and LASU Renew MoU to Enhance Indigenous Aerospace Engineering Capabilities
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lagos State University (LASU) to strengthen Nigeria's indigenous aerospace engineering capabilities. The renewed agreement, originally established in 2013 and renewed in 2018, aims to advance aerospace engineering through joint research, projects, staff exchanges, and conferences.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has renewed its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lagos State University (LASU), further solidifying efforts to boost Nigeria's indigenous aerospace engineering capabilities through strategic partnerships. The renewal was announced in Abuja by NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa.
During the event at NAF Headquarters, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, received a delegation led by LASU's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello. The CAS highlighted the significance of the renewed agreement, describing it as a critical component in NAF's broader strategy to strengthen technical collaborations with academic institutions.
He pointed out that such partnerships are key enablers in achieving the Command Philosophy of prioritizing research and development (R&D) through cutting-edge technology and strategic alliances.
“The collaboration with LASU, which started in 2013 with the first MoU, and renewed in 2018 for another five years, aligns with NAF's commitment to advancing indigenous aerospace capabilities. The latest renewal in 2024 will continue driving progress in aerospace engineering and associated fields through joint research, projects, conferences, and staff exchanges,” stated Air Marshal Abubakar.
He further acknowledged LASU’s Aerospace Engineering Department as an integral player in Nigeria's aviation sector, emphasizing the importance of harnessing technology and research to reduce the nation's reliance on foreign expertise.
In her remarks, Professor Olatunji-Bello expressed deep appreciation for NAF's continued support of the university’s aerospace engineering program. She noted that the collaboration has significantly strengthened the department's quest to establish itself as a world-class entity capable of producing the next generation of aerospace engineers and researchers.
“This partnership is pivotal to our efforts in addressing critical challenges in the aerospace industry. The MoU renewal enhances our capacity to deliver quality training and drive innovation,” she remarked.
The partnership is expected to provide workable solutions for the aerospace industry while fostering homegrown engineering expertise in Nigeria.
