President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled two new attack helicopters on Thursday, as part of the government’s plans to fight terrorism and insecurity.
President Bola Tinubu, speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima, said his administration will keep giving the military modern equipment despite financial constraints.
The helicopters, called Agusta A-109S Trekker, were added to the Air Force during its 61st-anniversary event in Abuja. Tinubu promised more tools for soldiers to tackle threats posed by insecurity in Nigeria.
“We will continue to invest in advanced defense technologies and ensure our forces are fully equipped to tackle both conventional and asymmetric threats,” he said.
The President listed other recently-acquired equipment including the Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, T-129 ATAK helicopters, and King Air 360i, noting that they would bolster the Air Force’s capabilities in combating terrorism and insurgency.
Tinubu said, “These acquisitions underscore our unwavering dedication to safeguarding our nation.”
He also linked security to economic growth, saying: “National security is the anchor of our Renewed Hope Agenda. Peace and stability are the bedrock of prosperity,” adding that safer communities will attract jobs and business to Nigeria.
He warned the Air Force to keep the new helicopters well-maintained and ready for action.
Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar called the helicopters “versatile” and praised the government’s support. “They can be used for fighting, training, and rescue missions,” he said.
Top officials, including the Defense Minister and military chiefs, attended the event.
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