198
By Myke Agunwa
President Bola Tinubu has urged the armed forces to step up and intensify efforts towards ending the multi-dimensional security challenges facing the nation, adding that a well-equipped military is crucial for preserving democracy.
The President made the call during the induction of two newly acquired Augusta A-109s Trekker Helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) inventory at the Presidential Air Fleet premises, Abuja on Friday.
Represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, Tinubu noted that the induction of the first batch of Augusta 109s Trekker helicopters which coincides with the Nigerian Air Force’s 61st anniversary, is a testament to the federal government’s unwavering commitment to boosting the capabilities of the NAF and the entire armed forces.
He added that the helicopters are expected to combat terrorism, armed banditry, oil theft, and other security challenges facing the nation.
“The dynamic security landscape of our nation demands an agile, well-equipped, and responsive Air Force capable of rapid deployment across multiple theaters. This induction is not just about adding new helicopters to our fleet; it is a strategic statement of intent—a demonstration of our collective resolve to strengthen our armed forces, defend our nation, and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa,” he said.
Tinubu expressed confidence that the deployment of the new helicopters would enhance the combat power of the Nigerian Air Force not only within Nigeria but also across the West African sub-region.
The President assured that the federal government will continue to support the professionalization and equipping of security agencies for the effective discharge of their duties.
He noted that conflicts in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa have continued to shape international security dynamics, adding that Nigeria must remain vigilant and proactive.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces must be prepared not only to address domestic security concerns but also to participate in regional and international peacekeeping efforts that promote stability and collective security,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Bala Hasan Abubakar, lauded the induction of the Augusta A-109s Trekker helicopters as a strategic boost to the NAF’s multi-domain operational capability.
“From 2024 to date, the Nigerian Air Force has received nine brand-new aircraft, including four C-129 attack helicopters, three King Air 360 aircraft, and the two Augusta 109s Trekker helicopters being inducted today,” he said.
He announced that NAF is set to receive an additional 49 aircraft within the next two years.
He said that the acquisitions will significantly enhance the NAF’s precision strike, ground attack, and air mobility capabilities in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations.
Air Marshal Abubakar also emphasized the deliberate steps taken to enhance the force’s operational capabilities, including the training of eight pilots and eighteen engineers and technicians for the Augusta 109s.
“Additionally, air and ground crew are currently undergoing specialized training abroad and will, in turn, train more personnel locally to sustain capacity development,” he added.
He highlighted ongoing investments in research and development to build technical capacity for maintaining sophisticated equipment.
Notably, the NAF has achieved breakthroughs such as the revalidation of Alpha Jet aircraft ejection seats, retrofitting of unserviceable 68 mm rockets, and the development of a test kit for pyro cartridge impulse measurement.
Abubakar announced that two weeks ago, a research committee was inaugurated to initiate the local production of C-57mm rockets to support NAF’s attack platforms, signaling a shift towards self-reliance and resilience in defense technology.
The Chief of Air Staff expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Nigerian Air Force and also thanked Leonardo of Italy for the timely delivery of the first batch of A109 Trekker helicopters.
He assured that the new platforms would be optimally deployed and maintained to serve the best interests of the nation.
“Our gratitude also goes to our revered predecessors—former Chiefs of Defense Staff and Chiefs of their staff—whose guidance and dedication continue to inspire us,” he concluded.