President Bola Tinubu has inducted five new helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force to strengthen its operational capabilities and improve the military’s response to security threats across the country.
The helicopters, comprising three Leonardo AW-109 Trekker B and two Airbus H-125 aircraft, were inducted on Thursday as part of the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise the country’s airpower and enhance national security.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the new aircraft will expand the service’s helicopter fleet, improve operational availability and provide greater flexibility for military operations.
The three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters are designed to support intelligence gathering, surveillance and reconnaissance, close air support, armed escort, combat search and rescue, as well as joint operations with ground troops.
The two Airbus H-125 helicopters, on the other hand, will provide light-helicopter support for surveillance, tactical mobility and other operational assignments.
The Air Force said the additional platforms would improve situational awareness, strengthen air support for troops and enhance response capabilities across different operational theatres.
It added that the induction also highlighted the need for sustained investment in aircraft maintenance, logistics, technical expertise and personnel training to ensure the new equipment delivers maximum operational benefits.
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The service said the investments would contribute to improved mission effectiveness and readiness in ongoing military operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
The ceremony was attended by the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Defence Staff, other service chiefs, ministers, members of the National Assembly and senior government and military officials.
The Air Force noted that the acquisition represented another step towards developing a more technologically advanced and responsive military air service.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has emphasised the need to translate investments in modern aircraft into improved operational outcomes through effective maintenance, mission-focused training and professional development of personnel.
The service said the effective deployment of the newly inducted helicopters would strengthen its contribution to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting ongoing operations aimed at restoring peace and security nationwide.
