From Our Correspondent
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) plans to acquire 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker Helicopters to boost its air capabilities in the fight against insurgency.
TheNewsZenith reports that the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar announced the plan at the Christmas luncheon with NAF personnel, on Wednesday, in Maiduguri.
“The Nigeria Air Force remains committed to advancing its air capabilities to boost operational readiness.
“We recently procured the A-29 Super Tucanos, JF-17 Thunders and the T129 Attack Helicopters,” the CAS said.
He said the current security challenges in the country required modern and versatile platforms to be addressed.
Abubakar said that NAF would continue to sustain capacity-building initiatives and personnel training. It will also boost research and development to enhance operational efficiency.
He urged personnel to use the Christmas period for reflection, gratitude and unity.
“You are here in the Theatre of War, standing as the true guardians of our nation’s peace and security. For that, I cannot thank you enough.
“Our concerted efforts, backed by strategic planning, community engagements and firm resolve have incapacitated the insurgents.
“The efforts have disrupted their activities and reduced their ability to harm innocent lives,” TheNewsZenith quoted the CAS as saying.
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He used the occasion to remember our fallen heroes who have paid the supreme price in the service of our fatherland.
“We would forever hold them dear in our thoughts and hearts as heroes of the society. May their gentle souls rest in perfect peace.”
In his goodwill message, Gov. Babagana Zulum also assured them that his government and the citizens of Borno had deeply appreciated their sacrifices.
TheNewsZenith reports that Prof. Usman Tar, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, represented the governor at the event.
He lauded the NAF’s vital role in fighting terrorism and providing humanitarian support in the northeast, particularly in Borno.
“We cannot forget the timely intervention of the Nigerian Air Force during the recent flood disaster in Maiduguri.
“The interventions range from Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance to airlift of relief materials, medical outreaches, and other welfare programmes.
“The agility and resilience you exhibited in this course is a sheer example of the true spirit of service for humanity,” the governor said.
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