The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has received two more Diamond-62 aircraft to help with its ongoing air operations against insecurity in the country.
The arrival of the new aircraft was marked with a ceremony held in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Wednesday.
This information was conveyed in a statement released by Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
During the ceremony, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, highlighted that the process leading to the acquisition of these two additional aircraft commenced approximately two years ago when the Federal Government allocated funds for the purchase 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.”
Expanding on this, Abubakar mentioned that the two DA-62 aircraft received earlier this year have already been sent to active duty in conflict zones within the country, as part of the continuing endeavors to bring peace and stability to these troubled regions.
As he encouraged the air and ground crew responsible for operating the aircraft, Abubakar encouraged them to “ensure the proper maintenance and operation of the aircraft in line with recommended best practices by the Original Equipment Manufacturer.”
He also urged them to make full use of the capabilities offered by the aircraft to improve the operational efficiency of the NAF.
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.”
During his speech, the Kwara State Governor, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, lauded the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and other security agencies for their dedicated work in addressing the country’s complex security issues.
Abdulrahman conveyed his gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) for selecting Ilorin as the operational hub for the DA-62 aircraft. He saw this decision as a symbol of the state’s tranquil and hospitable environment.
The statement added, “He then assured the CAS of his administration’s unwavering support to the NAF and other security agencies in their onerous tasks of safeguarding lives and properties.
In his introductory speech, the Air Officer Commanding the Mobility Command, AVM Tajudeen Yusuf, emphasized that the procurement of the DA-62 aircraft was driven by its capability to effectively execute extensive missions in support of combat operations.
“He then added that domiciling the DA-62 under 303 Medium Airlift Group in Ilorin will no doubt go a long way in breathing life into the unit while enhancing its operational activities.”