President Bola Tinubu has urged the Nigerian military to ramp up its efforts in tackling the country’s growing security challenges, saying a well-equipped force is essential for protecting democracy and national stability.
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President delivered this message on Friday, May 16, at the Presidential Air Fleet premises in Abuja during the induction of newly acquired Augusta A-109 Trekker helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
“A democratically stable Nigeria is fundamental to our national progress and regional peace,” Tinubu said. “The defense of democracy requires a military that is well-prepared, well-trained, and well-equipped.”
The induction of the helicopters, which coincided with the Air Force’s 61st anniversary, was described by Shettima as a show of the government’s firm commitment to improving Nigeria’s defence capabilities.
“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 stated.
The Augusta A-109s are expected to play a critical role in fighting terrorism, armed banditry, oil theft, and other threats across the country.
Shettima expressed confidence that the aircraft would not only enhance the NAF’s response within Nigeria, but also strengthen its operations across West Africa.
Highlighting budget constraints, the Vice President said the delivery of the helicopters and other equipment reflected the government’s seriousness about national security.
He also called for closer cooperation with neighbouring countries to tackle cross-border criminal activities.
“The multinational collaboration to bring peace to the Lake Chad region is an example that must be improved upon and replicated wherever necessary,” he added.
Shettima reaffirmed that under President Tinubu’s leadership, the federal government would continue to support the professional development and equipping of all security agencies.
He also noted that global conflicts in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and other parts of Africa continue to reshape international security, warning that Nigeria must remain vigilant and proactive.
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“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.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Bala Hassan Abubakar, described the induction as a major boost to the Air Force’s operations.
“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,” Abubakar said.
He also announced that the NAF is set to receive 49 additional aircraft in the next two years, which include:
10 Augusta 109 Trekkers
12 AH-1 Zulu Attack Helicopters
24 M-346 Ground Attack Aircraft
3 Kata 295 Medium Airlift Aircraft
According to Abubakar, these additions will significantly enhance the Air Force’s precision strike, mobility, and counterinsurgency capabilities.
He also noted that eight pilots and eighteen engineers and technicians have been trained for the new helicopters, while more personnel are currently undergoing specialised training abroad.
“Additionally, air and ground crew are currently undergoing specialized training abroad and will, in turn, train more personnel locally to sustain capacity development,” he said.
On research and innovation, the Air Marshal highlighted recent breakthroughs, including the revalidation of Alpha Jet ejection seats, retrofitting of unserviceable 68 mm rockets, and development of a test kit for measuring pyro cartridge impulse.
He also announced the inauguration of a research committee aimed at producing C-57mm rockets locally, marking a step toward defence self-reliance.
Abubakar expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his continued support and praised Leonardo of Italy for delivering the helicopters on time.
“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.