Nigeria Inducts 2 New Helicopters To Boost Air Force Capabilities
Nigeria has upgraded its air defence as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commissioned two new Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fleet.
The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, at the ceremony, held at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron in Abuja, formed part of activities marking the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force described the NAF as a “cynosure of operational excellence,”.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening national security and modernising the military.
He said the acquisition of the helicopters alongside recent additions like the T-129 ATAK and King Air 360i aircraft are demonstrations of the government’s resolve to ensure a safer Nigeria.
According to the President, a well-equipped military is essential not only for securing the nation but also for preserving our democracy, noting the importance of strategic defence investments in tackling both conventional and asymmetric threats.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, lauded the induction as a key milestone in the NAF’s fleet modernisation.
He stressed the helicopters’ versatility, highlighting their role in air reconnaissance, joint operations, and humanitarian missions.
A ceremonial flypast and inspection of the aircraft by top government functionaries and military officials present underscored Nigeria’s continued drive to enhancing its regional defence posture.
