The federal government has assured of renewed commitment to putting an end on the rising insecurity bedeviling the country.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave this assurance when he inducted two T129 Attack Combat Helicopters and one King Air Beechcraft 360ER mobility aircraft for use by the Nigerian Air Force held at the 131 Engineering Group Hanger, Nigeria Air Force Base, Makurdi.
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The president, who was represented by his Vice, Kashim Shettima, stated that the acquisition of the helicopters and the induction indicated the commitment of his administration to the nation’s security.
He said that the acquisition and induction of the new platforms would improve NAF’s airpower in the ongoing fight against insecurity across the country.
“NAF has been playing a critical role in the nation’s security, international operations and humanitarian needs.”
“Let me commend the Chief of Air Staff, officers and men for their commitment to enhancing national security. I assure you that the Tinubu administration will continue to support NAF and indeed, the Armed Forces of Nigeria towards combating terrorism, oil theft and other criminal activities.” He noted.
While assuring the NAF and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria of his administration’s continued support towards addressing the issue of terrorism, oil theft and other criminal activities, president Tinubu further commended the Chief of Air Staff, officers and men of the armed forces for their efforts in improving national security.
He stated that substantial improvement had been recorded in the ongoing counterterrorism efforts, however more needs to be done. The president also appealed for a change in mindset, strategy and tactics in addressing the ugly trend.
On his part, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, noted that the NAF had taken delivery of no fewer than seven aircraft. He reeled out the new aircraft to include two Diamond 62 surveillance aircraft, two T-129 ATAK helicopters, and a King Air 360 ER.
The Airforce Chief added that the NAF would induct 46 new aircraft of various types over the next 18 months.
He equally revealed that the air force has 170 pilots and 533 technicians and they were undergoing training locally and internationally.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, expressed gratitude to the President for his foresight and dogged support for the armed forces.
