…lauds NAF’s regional peacekeeping role, vows continued support for military welfare
By Nkechi Eze
In a major boost to Nigeria’s air power and defence capability, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned two newly acquired Agusta 109S Trekker helicopters into the operational fleet of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). The induction marks a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to modernise its military and enhance national security amid evolving security challenges.
Held on Thursday, 16th May 2025, at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, the induction ceremony attracted a high-level gathering of military and government dignitaries and formed part of the week-long events celebrating the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force, a service widely recognized for its operational excellence and critical role in both domestic and regional stability.
Represented by Vice President His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu praised the Nigerian Air Force for its outstanding service to the nation and reiterated the government’s unwavering support for the military’s operational needs.
“This ceremony marks another milestone in our unwavering commitment to strengthen our Armed Forces, particularly the Air Force, towards a more secured country,” Tinubu stated.
He described the Nigerian Air Force as “a cynosure of operational excellence” and a source of pride to the nation, referencing its contributions to peacekeeping efforts in The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Mali.
Highlighting the importance of the newly inducted platforms, the President noted: “This acquisition, made alongside platforms such as the Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, the T-129 ATAK helicopters, and the King Air 360i aircraft, underscores our resolve to prioritize fleet modernization and the welfare of our men and women in uniform.”
Reiterating that national security remains a top priority of his administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu declared:
“Neither economic prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity. I therefore urge our Armed Forces to intensify efforts to conclusively defeat the enemies of our collective progress and safeguard the future of our nation.”
He also emphasised the essential link between security, democracy, and development, adding:
“My administration will remain steadfast in modernising the Armed Forces and investing in cutting-edge defence technologies to confront both conventional and asymmetric threats.”
The President further described the helicopter induction as “a strategic statement of intent, a demonstration of our collective resolve to defend our nation and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership in Africa.”
In his welcome remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, said the induction represented a significant step in the Service’s modernisation drive and its commitment to delivering on national security objectives.
“The dynamic security landscape of our nation demands an agile, well-equipped, and responsive Air Force,” he said.
According to him, the Agusta 109 Trekker is a versatile, light, twin-engine multi-role helicopter well suited for a wide range of missions including joint operations, air reconnaissance, close air support, and humanitarian assistance.
“The induction of the Agusta 109 Trekker is a significant leap in our modernisation efforts. It will strengthen our multi-domain operational capability, increase responsiveness, and enable efficient mission delivery,” the CAS noted.
Air Marshal Abubakar also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, the National Assembly, the Ministers of Defence, the Service Chiefs, and Nigeria’s international partners for their consistent support. He paid tribute to past Chiefs of the Air Staff for laying the foundation upon which current progress is being made.
The newly inducted helicopters are expected to enhance the NAF’s operational flexibility across diverse terrains and provide critical support for both combat and civil-military operations, including disaster relief and humanitarian missions.
The ceremony featured a symbolic aerial display by the Agusta 109S, by NAF pilots, formal handing and taking over of the helicopters, inspection of the newly inducted aircraft by the Vice President on behalf of the President, presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph with top military and government officials.
The Nigerian Air Force was established in 1964 and continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s defence architecture and regional peacekeeping engagements.
