President Bola Tinubu on Friday inducted two new Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters into the inventory of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
The President, who was represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, praised the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force in advancing national security objectives and assured of continued federal support for defence modernisation.
A statement by the NAF Spokesman, Air Cdre Ehimen Ejodame said the ceremony which held at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron in Abuja, marked a key highlight of activities commemorating the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force.
Tinubu, highlighting the NAF’s engagements in countries such as The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Mali, described the Air Force as a “cynosure of operational excellence” and a source of pride for Nigeria.
Speaking on the importance of the newly acquired aircraft, Tinubu stated that the “ceremony marks another milestone in our unwavering commitment to strengthen our Armed Forces, particularly the Air Force, towards a more secured country.
“This acquisition, made alongside platforms such as the Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, the T-129 ATAK helicopters, and the King Air 360i aircraft, underscores our resolve to prioritise fleet modernisation and the welfare of our men and women in uniform.”
He reiterated that security remains a top priority of his administration and assured the military of continued support in line with the eight priority areas of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President further emphasised that, “Neither economic prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity,” therefore, urging the Nigerian Armed Forces to “intensify efforts to conclusively defeat the enemies of our collective progress and safeguard the future of our nation.”
Emphasising the link between security, democracy, and national development, Tinubu said a well-equipped military was essential not only for securing the nation but also for preserving its democracy.
“My administration will remain steadfast in modernising the Armed Forces and investing in cutting-edge defence technologies to confront both conventional and asymmetric threats,” he assured.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the helicopter induction, Tinubu noted that “it is a strategic statement of intent, a demonstration of our collective resolve to defend our nation and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership in Africa.”
In his welcome address, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar described the induction as a major milestone in the Service’s drive to modernise its fleet and enhance operational effectiveness across all theatres.
He underscored the aircraft’s role in supporting joint operations, air reconnaissance, close air support, and humanitarian missions.
“The dynamic security landscape of our nation demands an agile, well-equipped, and responsive Air Force,” the CAS said.
“The induction of the Agusta 109 Trekker, a versatile, light twin-engine multi-role helicopter is a significant leap in our modernisation efforts. It will strengthen our multi-domain operational capability, increase responsiveness, and enable efficient mission delivery,” the CAS said.
He extolled President Tinubu, the National Assembly, the Ministers of Defence, Defence and Service Chiefs, as well as Nigeria’s international partners for their unwavering support.
The CAS also acknowledged the contributions of former Air Chiefs and praised their enduring legacies.
The newly inducted A-109 Trekker helicopters were expected to provide critical support for both military and civil operations, from battlefield deployment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
The ceremony concluded with a symbolic fly-past and inspection of the new aircraft by the President, flanked by top defence and government officials.
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