In a recent development, President Bola Tinubu has overseen the incorporation of two advanced T-129 ATAK Helicopters and a King Air 360ER Beechcraft into the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) Order of Battle (ORBAT).
This announcement came via a statement issued by the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, AVM Edward Gabkwet, on Tuesday, January 06, 2024, in Abuja.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the NAF Base in Makurdi, President Tinubu reiterated his unwavering commitment to bolstering national security by investing in cutting-edge equipment.
He emphasized the significance of these new assets in augmenting NAF’s combat capabilities to address contemporary security challenges within Nigeria and across the West African region.
President Tinubu underscored the importance of strict operational discipline and the establishment of a robust maintenance culture to ensure optimal utilization of the newly acquired assets.
He commended the NAF for its reliability as a regional powerhouse and reiterated his administration’s steadfast support for the force.
Additionally, President Tinubu affirmed his resolve to combat terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping, and other criminal activities plaguing the nation.
While acknowledging progress in counterterrorism efforts, he urged sustained vigilance until all security challenges are decisively addressed, emphasizing the need for innovative strategies.
In response, Minister of Defence, Alhaji Muhammed Badaru, praised President Tinubu’s genuine commitment to restoring peace across Nigeria. Badaru commended the President’s foresight, resilient leadership, and consistent backing of the Armed Forces amidst daunting challenges.
The minister urged the NAF to strictly adhere to maintenance schedules and implement robust safety measures to ensure the sustained operational readiness of the aircraft for maximum national benefit. He urged NAF personnel to align their actions with the President’s vision of peace, stability, and rapid development.
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, hailed the induction as a testament to the government’s determination to equip and empower the NAF in the fight against terrorism and other threats.
He disclosed that since the inception of Tinubu’s administration, the NAF has integrated five new aircraft into its fleet, with plans underway to acquire 46 more aircraft of various types over the next 18 months.
Assuring Nigerians of the NAF’s unwavering commitment to achieving a favorable outcome in the fight against insurgency, Air Marshal Abubakar urged citizens to maintain faith in the nation’s progress and prosperity.
The induction ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries, including Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue, Minister of Information and Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, and the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Hidayet Bayraktar. Also present were members of the National Assembly and several serving and retired senior military officers.
