President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigeria’s armed forces to “step up and intensify efforts towards conclusively ending the multi-dimensional security challenges facing our dear country.”
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the induction ceremony of new Augusta A-109s Trekker helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force fleet on Friday, the President stressed that national security and democratic stability are interdependent.
“A democratically stable Nigeria is fundamental to our national progress and regional peace. The defense of democracy requires a military that is well-prepared, well-trained, and well-equipped,” Tinubu stated during the event held at the Presidential Air Fleet premises in Abuja.
The Vice President described the helicopter induction – coinciding with NAF’s 61st anniversary – as proof of the administration’s commitment to strengthening military capabilities.
“The dynamic security landscape of our nation demands an agile, well-equipped, and responsive Air Force capable of rapid deployment across multiple theatres,” Shettima noted, adding that the aircraft would bolster operations against terrorism, banditry, and oil theft.
Shettima framed the acquisition as both practical necessity and strategic statement: “This induction is not just about adding new helicopters to our fleet; it is a demonstration of our collective resolve to strengthen our armed forces, defend our nation, and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa.”
Despite budget limitations, he affirmed continued investment in military hardware while calling for enhanced regional cooperation, particularly citing the Lake Chad Basin security framework as a model.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Bala Abubakar, revealed significant ongoing force modernization, announcing that NAF has received nine new aircraft in 2024 alone, including the newly inducted helicopters.
He outlined ambitious acquisition plans: “We expect 49 additional aircraft within 24 months, including 10 more Augusta 109s, 12 AH-1 Zulu attack helicopters, 24 M-346 ground attack aircraft, and 3 Kata 295 medium lift aircraft.”
Abubakar highlighted parallel investments in human capital, with eight pilots and eighteen engineers trained specifically for the Augusta 109s, plus more personnel undergoing specialized training abroad.
He also showcased indigenous defense technology breakthroughs, including the revalidation of Alpha Jet ejection seats and development of rocket test kits.
Notably, NAF recently inaugurated a research committee to pioneer local production of 57mm rockets.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces must be prepared not only to address domestic security concerns but also to participate in regional and international peacekeeping efforts,” Shettima concluded, linking national security to broader global stability amidst conflicts in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
