President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has inducted two brand-new Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters into the inventory of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force in a statement said the induction ceremony, held at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron in Abuja, marked a key highlight of activities commemorating the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force.
The President, who was represented by the Vice President, His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, praised the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force in advancing national security objectives and assured continued federal support for defence modernisation.
Highlighting the NAF’s engagements in countries such as The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Mali, the President 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, President Tinubu stated, “Today’s ceremony marks another milestone in our unwavering commitment to strengthen our Armed Forces, particularly the Air Force, towards a more secured country.
According to him, this acquisition, made alongside platforms such as the Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, the T-129 ATAK helicopters, and the King Air 360i aircraft, underscores their 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 declared, “Neither economic prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity. Therefore, the Nigerian Armed Forces must intensify efforts to conclusively defeat the enemies of our collective progress and safeguard the future of our nation.”
