President Muhammadu Buhari has assured that the Nigerian Air Force despite its challenges would stand shoulder to shoulder with the very best in the world.
The president who was represented by Vice President Prof. Yemi Osibanjo disclosed this at the grand finale of the 59th anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force in Enugu yesterday.
Buhari said Nigeria as a country was proud that in less than four years it had been able to revitalise its armed forces as they have proved their mettle both locally and internationally.
“I must say that I am impressed by the display put up by officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force at this ceremonial event, especially in the March past/parade and the colourful arial exhibition.
“This display aptly demonstrates the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to achieving high standards of operational readiness, indeed, our Air Force is willing, able, and ready,” he said.
He lauded the chief of air staff and his team for commendable leadership they have shown.
Osibanjo said President Buhari had prioritised the restoration of professionalism in the military to enable them effectively discharge their responsibilities.
“President Muhammadu Buhari has ensured that substantial investments have been made by acquiring new platforms and other support equipment for the military and other security agencies as well as reactivating and upgrading existing platforms.
“In the last four years, the administration acquired new air platform for the Nigerian Air Force such as the GF 17 thunder multi- role fighter aircraft, the A29 Super Tucano aircraft, the Diamond-62 aircraft, and the T1-29 attack helicopters, Beach-craft and unmanned arial system and we have just commissioned two of those platforms that had been purchased earlier by this administration.
“For example, the procurement for the purchase of the 12 super Tucano aircraft in 2018 was done through a transparent first of its kind government to government deal with the United States of America.
“It is evident that the huge investments in the capacity development of the Nigerian Air Force has helped to turn the tide against terrorists and other violent non state actors in our nation”. the vice president said.
Osibanjo commended the renewed focus on research, innovation and self reliance by the chief of air staff.
“It is also an important component of the development of our military industrial complex for Nigeria and the armed forces in general and am pleased to note that we are seeing an air force that is increasingly confident about its ability and capability to innovate and to deploy locally developed technology,” Osibanjo added.
He urged the Nigerian Air Force to strive to expand its collaborations outside of the military.
