Follow Us on Google
From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
President Bola Tinubu has inducted two new T-129 ATAK Helicopters and a King Air 360ER Beechcraft into the Order of Battle (ORBAT) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
Speaking during the induction, on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at NAF Base, Makurdi, Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, said the acquisition and induction of the platforms no doubt stands as a symbol of President Tinubu’s enduring commitment to the ideals of patriotism and investment in national security as well as a solemn commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s security.
He said the induction would give a major boost to counterinsurgency, counterterrorism, anti-crude oil theft and anti-kidnapping operations in Nigeria.
President Tinubu expressed confidence that the deployment of the newly acquired platforms would significantly enhance the combat efficiency of the NAF in addressing contemporary security challenges, both domestically and within the West African region.
He called for discipline in operations and the establishment of a robust maintenance culture to maximise the benefits derived therein.
The President expressed pride in the NAF standing as a dependable regional power and emphasised his administration’s dedication to supporting it.
He also reflected on his earlier commitment to eradicating terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping, and other criminal activities that have plagued the country for years saying that although substantial progress has been achieved in ongoing counterterrorism efforts, there should be no cause for celebration until the security challenges are fully addressed.
He called on them to up their games urging them to change their mindset, strategy and tactics in addressing the menace.
Earlier, the Minister of Defence, Dr Badaru Abubakar, acknowledged the sincerity of purpose of the President towards restoring peace in every part of Nigeria.
Abubakar expressed his gratitude to the President for his foresight, resilient leadership, and unwavering support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria, despite the numerous challenges confronting the nation.
He harped on the need for adherence to maintenance schedules and the implementation of robust safety practices to ensure the sustained serviceability status of the aircraft so as to derive maximum benefit for the nation.
The Minister further urged NAF personnel to align their individual and collective actions with the vision of the President, emphasising the pursuit of peace, stability and rapid development objectives.
Also speaking, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, noted that the induction ceremony bears glowing testimony of the Federal Government’s unwavering resolve to equip and energise the NAF and indeed the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria, towards combating terrorism and other threats facing the Nation.
The CAS also disclosed that since Mr President assumed office, the NAF has inducted 5 new aircraft into its fleet, including 2 Diamond 62 surveillance aircraft, 2 T-129 ATAK helicopters, and a King Air 360 ER.
The CAS further highlighted NAF’s plan to induct 46 new aircraft of various types over the next 18 months assuring Nigerians that though the NAF is operationally engaged on all fronts, it would not rest until it brings the war to a favourable end to ensure the peace and stability that Nigerians deserve.
He then urged all Nigerians to keep the faith and hope in the advancement and prosperity of the nation.
Fielding questions from the media, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia commended the federal government and Nigerian armed forces for combating insurgency in the country saying with the induction of the fighter jets, more results in countering insurgency and other forms of insecurity will achieve desired results.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of other distinguished dignitaries, including Minister of Information and Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Hidayet Bayraktar, members of the national assembly and several senior military officers, serving and retired.
