Change Strategy In Your Fight Against Terrorism, Insurgency, FG Tells NAF

The federal government has asked the Nigerian Air Force to explore other strategies in its ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in some areas of the country.

President Bola Tinubu disclosed this on Tuesday while speaking at the induction of the newly acquired two T-129 ATAK helicopters and a King Air 360ER Beechcraft into the Order of Battle (ORBAT) at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base in Makurdi, Benue State.

President Tinubu was represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima.

In a press release, signed by NAF’s spokesperson, Edward Gabkwet, he quoted the president as saying that the acquisition of a combat platform for the armed forces may be commendable, but its celebration should be relegated until the nation’s security challenges are fully addressed.

“The President called for discipline in operations and the establishment of a robust maintenance culture to maximize the benefits of the platforms.

“President Tinubu also reflected on his earlier commitment to eradicating terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping, and other criminal activities that have plagued the country for years.

“He then called for a change in mindset, strategy and tactics in addressing the menace,” the statement read.

On his part, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Hasan Abubakar, noted that the induction of the helicopters shows the FG’s unwavering resolve to equip and energise the NAF and the entire armed forces of Nigeria.

“While emphasizing the importance of these acquisitions in line with the president’s commitment to national security, the CAS highlighted the NAF’s plan to induct 46 new aircraft of various types over the next 18 months,” Gabkwet said.

The new platforms, according to the statement would enhance NAF’s firepower as it jointly confronts the various security challenges in the country, alongside sister services and other security agencies.

The NAF has inducted five new aircraft into its fleet since Tinubu assumed office. They include two Diamond 62 surveillance aircraft, a King Air 360 ER, and two T-129 ATAK helicopters.

Others are expected to arrive before Q2 2024.

The NAF said it plans to induct 46 new aircraft of various types over the next 18 months.

In October 2022, NAF was in the final stage of negotiations for eight different aircraft including two AW109 Trekker helicopters, two Beechcraft King Air 360 ISR, four Diamond DA-62 ISR and six T-129 ATAK helicopters.

Others are three Wing Loong II UCAVs, two CASA-295 medium airlift/surveillance aircraft, 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters and 24 M-346 trainer/attack aircraft.

The NAF has, however, delivered a total of one Beechcraft King Air 360 ISR, four Diamond DA-62 ISR, two T-129 ATAK helicopters and three Wing Loong II UCAV.