The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, announced that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is expediting the procurement of more than 46 advanced fighter aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to improve the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria across various air operations.
During the inauguration of essential infrastructure projects at NAF Base Kaduna, the CAS emphasized that these acquisitions are part of the comprehensive transformation of the Service under his leadership.
The planned acquisitions consist of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters, and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters.
Air Marshal Aneke revealed that strategic discussions with partners in the United States, Italy, and Türkiye are yielding fruitful outcomes.
In addition to expanding its fleet, the NAF has initiated essential preparations to train its personnel in operating these new, advanced aircraft.
He described these developments as crucial for equipping the next generation of pilots who will operate the new platforms of the Service.
In a statement issued by the Nigerian Air Force's Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast dedication to national security.
"We commend President Tinubu for his unwavering support of national security, especially as shown through his bilateral agreements with the Turkish government regarding defense equipment, which includes the acquisition of advanced helicopters and UAVs for the Nigerian Air Force," he noted.
Air Marshal Aneke underscored the significance of the newly completed infrastructure projects, stating that the opening of the Student Pilots’ Quarters marks a significant milestone in preparing pilots for operating modern aircraft, thus enabling effective air power to combat terrorist threats and protect the nation.
He stressed that this inauguration is about more than just buildings. "My goal here transcends physical structures; it is about realizing my command philosophy, aimed at cultivating and maintaining a highly motivated, professional, and operationally proficient force capable of delivering decisive air power in collaboration with ground forces for achieving national security goals," he remarked.
The inaugurated projects encompass six blocks of twelve one-bedroom Student Pilots’ Quarters, a block of six three-bedroom flats completed by NAF at the initiative of the Ministry of Defence, and a block of thirty one-bedroom studio apartments for airmen and airwomen within the Military Training Centre.
The CAS urged personnel to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism.
He acknowledged the foresight of former CAS Air Marshal H.B. Abubakar in instigating the project, commended the Logistics Branch, the Air Officer Commanding, and all contractors for their timely project completion.
He also expressed appreciation to the federal government and the leadership of the National Assembly for facilitating the financial releases that made these advancements possible.
Reiterating the Service’s dedication to the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Air Marshal Aneke affirmed that the NAF would remain a vital contributor to ensuring the safety, security, and prosperity of Nigeria.
In his remarks, the Air Officer Commanding, Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshal E.P. Efanga, commended the leadership of the CAS, praising the commitment of personnel and contractors involved in the project execution.
He referred to the new facilities as a landmark achievement in enhancing operational capability and improving personnel welfare, knowing they play a crucial role in preparing pilots to operate advanced platforms that will define the future of the Nigerian Air Force.
Meanwhile, General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Staff, addressed troops during the unveiling of the newly built ultra-modern accommodation for Non-Commissioned Officers and a renovated conference hall at the Headquarters of JTF SS OPDS in Igbogene, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. He emphasized the importance of discipline and ethical conduct among troops, cautioning against any form of illegality or compromise during their duties.
He underscored that safeguarding oil and gas infrastructure is essential for Nigeria’s economic stability, necessitating strong commitment and professionalism. In a statement from the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the CDS reiterated his commitment to prioritizing the welfare and working conditions of Armed Forces personnel.
He mentioned ongoing efforts to improve welfare packages, emphasizing his resolve to enhance the overall well-being of service members.
General Oluyede praised Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, Commander of JTF SS OPDS, for effectively carrying out the projects, describing them as initiatives that add value and demonstrate a strong commitment to personnel welfare.
In his address, Rear Admiral Oladipo extended his gratitude to the CDS for attending the event despite his busy schedule.
He explained that the projects were designed and delivered to align with the CDS’s military strategic philosophy, which emphasizes troop welfare.
The newly inaugurated Non-Commissioned Officers’ residence comprises 24 apartments equipped with 24-hour solar power, water facilities, bedding, and cooling systems to ensure personnel comfort.
The Commander reiterated his commitment to prioritizing the well-being of officers and personnel, noting that better living conditions would enhance morale and overall operational effectiveness.
He reaffirmed that Operation Delta Safe will remain focused on protecting oil and gas infrastructure, deterring militancy, combating sea robbery, and ensuring the safety of lives and property throughout the Niger Delta region.
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