…New Weapons Ready as CDS Vows to Crush Terrorism
President Bola Tinubu has charged the Armed Forces of Nigeria to step up their game and decisively confront the country’s security challenges, declaring that national security remains the bedrock of Nigeria’s democracy, peace and economic growth.
Speaking on Friday through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, during the induction of two Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fleet, the President emphasised the critical role of the military in securing the country and ensuring a stable society where citizens can thrive.
“A democratically-stable Nigeria is fundamental to our national progress and regional peace. The defense of democracy requires a military that is well-prepared, well-trained, and well-equipped,” Tinubu said.
He explained that the government remains committed to investing in military modernisation despite current fiscal constraints, adding that security is vital for any meaningful national development.
“We also recognise that the security of a nation is intrinsically linked to its economic growth and social stability. For our people to engage in meaningful, productive ventures, national security must be strengthened,” he said.
Tinubu stated that peace and prosperity remain major pillars of his Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing the need to restore trust and confidence among citizens.
“Your efforts in wrapping up our onslaught against the enemies of our collective progress are not only critical to our strategic objectives but also vital in restoring the trust and confidence of the people to thrive and prosper.
“You must, therefore, step up and intensify your efforts at conclusively ending the multi-dimensional security challenges facing our dear country,” the President said.
Reaffirming his administration’s resolve to equip the Armed Forces with the tools needed to perform effectively, Tinubu declared: “My administration will remain steadfast in modernizing the armed forces, ensuring that you have the best tools to perform your duties effectively.
“We will continue to invest in cutting-edge defense technologies and provide our military with the resources needed to counter both conventional and asymmetric threats. This investment in air power expands our strategic capabilities and creates an enabling environment for local and foreign investments to thrive.”
The President also said Nigeria must be prepared to take a leadership role in peacekeeping across the region.
“These realities demand that we remain vigilant, adaptable, and proactive in safeguarding our national interests.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces must, therefore, be prepared not only to address domestic security concerns but also to participate in regional and international peacekeeping efforts that promote stability and collective security.
“This induction ceremony is not merely about adding new helicopters to our fleet. It is a strategic statement of intent—a demonstration of our collective resolve to strengthen our armed forces, defend our nation, and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa.”
Tinubu urged the Air Force to demonstrate discipline and uphold a strong maintenance culture.
“I expect discipline in operations and a strong maintenance culture that will enable the nation to derive maximum benefits from these acquisitions,” he said.
On his part, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, described the induction of the helicopters as a milestone in the Air Force’s modernisation drive.
“They are designed to operate in challenging environments, providing critical support to both military and civil operations, including disaster relief and humanitarian missions,” he said.
Abubakar disclosed that since 2024, the NAF has received nine new aircraft and expects 49 more within two years, including more Agusta helicopters, AH-1 Zulu attack helicopters, M-346 light attack aircraft, and C-295 airlift platforms.
“The dynamic security landscape demands a responsive Air Force capable of rapid deployment. These platforms will enhance our precision strike and air mobility capabilities,” he said.
He added that eight pilots and 18 engineers have already been trained for the new platforms, with more personnel undergoing training abroad.
In a related development, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, while addressing journalists during a separate visit to Maiduguri, Borno State, said more sophisticated weapons have been procured and would soon be deployed alongside new strategies to tackle terrorism head-on.
“We have procured more sophisticated weapons which will soon be deployed alongside new strategies to end the madness of terrorism,” he said.
According to him, the heightened attacks in the North East are due to pressure being mounted on terrorists in the Sahel region, which is forcing them to retreat into Nigeria, particularly through the porous Lake Chad Basin borders.
“The pockets of attacks should not be a cause for concern, as the military and security agencies are firmly in control,” he stated.
“What we are witnessing here is an eclipse caused by pressure on terrorists in the Sahel region, forcing them to increase attacks in Nigeria, especially around the porous borders of the Lake Chad Basin. We are working diligently to address these challenges.”
He assured Nigerians that the Tinubu-led administration is committed to providing lasting solutions to the insecurity bedevilling the country.
“Security is not a one-man business. I appeal to everyone to join the fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP, banditry, kidnapping, and all forms of criminality for the peace and development of our country,” he said.
Musa also noted that Nigeria remains non-aligned on the global stage but is open to collaborating with international partners to combat insecurity.
The ceremony in Abuja was attended by top government and military officials, including the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; and Senator Austin Akobundu, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Air Force.
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