The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is to procure over 46 cutting-edge fighter aircraft, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to enhance the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria across the full spectrum of air operations.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said this during the inauguration of key infrastructural projects at NAF Base Kaduna.
He said the acquisitions form part of the ongoing transformation of the Service, adding that those being procured include 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters.
Aneke said strategic engagements in the United States, Italy and Türkiye are already yielding positive results, adding that in addition to expanding its fleet, the NAF was preparing its personnel for the operation of the incoming modern and advanced aircraft.
The CAS said the developments were critical to readying the next generation of pilots who will operate the Service’s new platforms.
According to NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS expressed profound appreciation to the President President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to national security.
“We salute President Tinubu for his unwavering support to national security, as demonstrated by his bilateral engagement with the Government of the Republic of Türkiye for defence equipment, including the acquisition of advanced helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for the Nigerian Air Force,” he said.
The CAS said the completion of the Student Pilots’ Quarters represents a major step in preparing pilots to operate modern advanced aircraft, enabling the projection of smart and decisive air power to eliminate terrorist threats while safeguarding the nation.
He emphasised that the inauguration goes beyond infrastructure. “My mission here is not just about buildings but about fulfilling my command philosophy, to enhance and sustain a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces for the realisation of national security objectives,” he said.
The projects inaugurated include six blocks of 12 one-bedroom Student Pilots’ Quarters, a block of six three-bedroom flats initiated by the Ministry of Defence and completed by the NAF, and a block of 30 one-bedroom studio apartments for airmen and airwomen of the Military Training Centre.
The CAS urged personnel to maintain the highest standards of discipline and professionalism.
He appreciated the former CAS, Air Marshal H.B. Abubakar, for his foresight in initiating the project, and commended the Logistics Branch, the Air Officer Commanding and all contractors for the timely delivery of the projects.
He also acknowledged the Federal Government and the leadership of the National Assembly for enabling the fiscal releases that made the developments possible.
Reaffirming the Service’s commitment to the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Air Marshal Aneke pledged that the NAF would remain a critical stakeholder in the realisation of a safe, secure and prosperous Nigeria.
