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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially added two new Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fleet.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who serves as the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, released a statement noting that the induction event took place at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron in Abuja. It was part of the activities marking the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force.
Represented by Vice President, His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, the President commended the Air Force’s dedication to national security goals and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to modernising the defence sector.
While acknowledging NAF’s missions in countries including The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Mali, the President referred to the Air Force as a “cynosure of operational excellence” and a symbol of national pride.
Speaking on the relevance of the newly inducted helicopters, President Tinubu said, “Today’s ceremony marks another milestone in our unwavering commitment to strengthen our Armed Forces, particularly the Air Force, towards a more secured country.”
He explained that this procurement, alongside assets such as the Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, the T-129 ATAK helicopters, and the King Air 360i, highlights the administration’s dedication to fleet upgrades and the welfare of military personnel.
He emphasised that security is a fundamental focus of his administration and pledged sustained support for the military in line with the eight pillars of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President concluded, “Neither economic prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity. Therefore, the Nigerian Armed Forces must intensify efforts to conclusively defeat the enemies of our collective progress and safeguard the future of our nation.”