- The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, highlighted during the event that the arrival of these two additional aircraft was the result of a process initiated approximately two years ago when the Federal Government allocated funds for the procurement of four Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF
As part of their commitment to heighten ongoing air operations against insecurity in the nation, the Nigerian Air Force has acquired two extra Diamond-62 aircraft.
These new aircraft were formally received during a ceremony held in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Wednesday, as outlined in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, highlighted during the event that the arrival of these two additional aircraft was the result of a process initiated approximately two years ago when the Federal Government allocated funds for the procurement of four Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF.
According to him, “Out of the four aircraft, the first two aircraft were delivered between February and July 2023 while the remaining two were being received today.”
Speaking further, Abubakar noted that the two DA-62 aircraft received earlier in the year have since been deployed to the operating theatres in support of the ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in troubled areas within the country.
While urging the air and ground crew that would handle the aircraft to eschew discipline and professionalism, Abubakar admonished them to also “ensure the proper maintenance and operation of the aircraft in line with recommended best practices by the Original Equipment Manufacturer.”
He also implored them to leverage the capabilities available on the aircraft to enhance NAF’s operational efficiency.
The statement read in parts, “In paying glowing tribute to the FG for its commitment to revamping the fortunes of the NAF and other Services, the CAS also noted that the receipt of the two additional aircraft confirms the sincerity and commitment of the government towards ensuring peace returns to hitherto troubled spots.
“He went on to add that the NAF will in no distant time take delivery of additional platforms that include the M346FA aircraft, AW109 Trekker light attack helicopter, AH-1Z Super Cobra, T-129 ATAK helicopters and the King Air 360i Beechcraft aircraft.”
While speaking, the Kwara State Governor, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, commended the NAF for its efforts, alongside other security agencies towards ridding the nation of its numerous security challenges.