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.
