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By Kabir Abdulsalam
The Nigerian Army (NA) in welcomed the arrival two brand-new helicopters to its aviation capabilities.
The aircraft, which are the first batch of a larger fleet, landed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 4:40 pm.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), linked the unveiling the visionaries who conceptualized the initiative. He traced the journey back to 2014 when the former COAS, Lieutenant General KTJ Minimah, established the NA Aviation Coordination Office with a 10-year implementation plan.
The unveiling of the new helicopters marks a major step forward in the NA’s aviation journey, enhancing its capabilities and strengthening national security.”
The COAS traced the journey back to 2014 when the former COAS, Lieutenant General KTJ Minimah, established the NA Aviation Coordination Office with a 10-year implementation plan.
General Lagbaja expressed gratitude to all predecessors, military personnel, government officials, and administrations since 2014, including Presidents Goodluck Jonathan, Mohammadu Buhari, and Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for their support and funding.
He acknowledged the encouragement and support from sister services like the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Navy, and the Nigeria Police.
The COAS thanked the National Assembly, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, Chief of Defence Staff, fellow service chiefs, and all Nigerians for their support, reaffirming the NA’s dedication to serving the nation and creating an enabling environment for economic prosperity.
Earlier, the Coordinator of Nigerian Army Aviation, Brigadier General Musa Alkali, noted that the acquisition of the advanced platforms was in line with the COAS vision to transform the Nigerian Army into a Highly Motivated and Well-trained and equipped force.
He welcomed the Army Chief and other dignitaries to the reception ceremony acknowledged the collective commitment to advancing national security and praised the tireless efforts of those involved in the project.
The new air platforms known as Bell UH1-H will significantly enhance the NA’s reconnaissance, surveillance, and air mobility capabilities, boosting operational effectiveness.
The Coordinator expressed the NA’s commitment to protecting and serving with honour and distinction, adding that the acquisition marks a new chapter in the NA’s operational readiness.
