Tinubu inducts new NAF fighter helicopters to combat insecurity

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).

According to a statement by Edward Gabkwet, the spokesperson of the force, Tinubu inducted the platforms on Tuesday at the NAF base in Makurdi, the capital of Benue.

Gabkwet said Tinubu was represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, noting that the president said the deployment of the new platforms would help to address the security challenges in the country.

He added that Tinubu said the acquisition and induction of the platforms are a symbol of his administration’s investment in national security and commitment to safeguard Nigeria. 

“Although substantial progress has been achieved in the ongoing counterterrorism efforts, there should be no cause for celebration until the security challenges are fully addressed,” the statement reads.

“The President called for discipline in operations and the establishment of a robust maintenance culture to maximize the benefits of the platforms. 

“President Tinubu also reflected on his earlier commitment to eradicating terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping, and other criminal activities that have plagued the country for years.

“Although he noted that substantial progress has been achieved in ongoing counterterrorism efforts, there should be no cause for celebration until the security challenges are fully addressed. He then called for a change in mindset, strategy and tactics in addressing the menace.” 

Gabkwet said Hasan Abubakar, the chief of air staff (CAS), also said that the induction of the helicopters shows the federal government’s unwavering resolve to equip and energise the NAF and the entire armed forces of Nigeria.

He said since Tinubu assumed office, the NAF has inducted five new aircraft into its fleet, including two Diamond 62 surveillance aircraft, 2 T-129 ATAK helicopters, and a King Air 360 ER. 

“While emphasizing the importance of these acquisitions in line with the President’s commitment to national security, the CAS highlighted the NAF’s plan to induct 46 new aircraft of various types over the next 18 months,” Gabkwet said.