President Bola Tinubu on Friday inducted two Agusta A-109S Trekker Power Attack Helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Abuja, promising his administration will continue to invest in cutting-edge defence technologies despite budgetary constraints.
The induction ceremony, held at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron as part of activities marking the NAF's 61st anniversary, saw Vice President Kashim Shettima representing the President.
"We will continue to invest in cutting-edge defence technologies and provide our military with the resources needed to counter both conventional and asymmetric threats," Tinubu said through his deputy.
The President expressed confidence that the deployment of these helicopters would enhance the combat capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force in addressing security challenges both within Nigeria and across the West African sub-region.
These newly inducted helicopters join a growing list of recent military acquisitions including Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, T-129 ATAK helicopters, and King Air 360i platforms, demonstrating the government's commitment to military modernization.
"Despite our budgetary constraints amidst the prevailing economic situation, the acquisition of these aircraft, amongst other military equipment, is an expression of our commitment to enhanced national security," the President stated.
Tinubu emphasized that strengthening national security is a key priority in his Renewed Hope Agenda, as it creates the foundation for economic growth and investment. He called on the NAF to intensify efforts in conclusively addressing the multi-dimensional security challenges facing the country.
The President also urged NAF personnel to maintain discipline in operations and adopt a strong maintenance culture to maximize the benefits of these new acquisitions.
In his welcome remarks, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, described the induction ceremony as a clear testament to the federal government's unwavering commitment to strengthening the capabilities of the nation's military forces.
