President Bola Tinubu presided over the induction ceremony of two TK-129 ATAK Helicopters and a King Air 360i Aircraft at Nigeria Air (NAF) Base in Makurdi, Benue State.
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Tinubu at the event, emphasizing the government’s commitment to national security by investing in air assets.
The helicopters, designated as NAF 500 and NAF 501, along with the King Air 360i aircraft as NAF 205, were officially integrated into the Nigerian Air Force. Dignitaries present included Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Minister of Defence Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, members of the National Assembly from Benue State, and members of the State House of Assembly. The induction ceremony underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to bolster its military capabilities in addressing security challenges across the nation.
In related news, Report Afrique previously reported that the United States Department of Defense recently approved a $1 billion arms sale aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s military capabilities.
The arms deal includes the procurement of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and associated equipment, along with 32 mission computers supplied by Northrop Grumman.
Approved in response to Nigeria’s formal request, the arms sale seeks to address persistent security challenges, such as the Boko Haram insurgency and rising incidents of banditry. Scheduled for completion by June 2024, the arms package includes advanced guidance systems, night vision imaging systems, and comprehensive training programs to empower Nigeria in tackling its multifaceted security concerns and contribute to regional stability in Sub-Saharan Africa.
