The Nigerian Army Aviation Unit has received two fighter jets, enhancing its operational capabilities. The Bell UH1 combat helicopters arrived at the Nigerian Police Air Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, fulfilling a plan initiated 10 years ago by former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah.
Current COAS, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, announced that President Bola Tinubu had approved the acquisition of 12 MD 530F Cayuse Attack Helicopters in 2023 to reenergize the Army Aviation unit. Lt. Gen. Lagbaja expressed his elation at the realization of the aviation unit's operational dream, stating, “I am glad that, as conceptualized, 10 years later, we have today taken delivery of our first set of platforms.”
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The newly received jets will be used for casualty evacuation, reconnaissance, and surveillance. The coordinator of the Aviation Wing, Brig.-Gen. M.S. Alkali, highlighted the significance of these advanced air platforms in bolstering the Army's operational readiness and ability to respond effectively to security challenges.
At a separate event in Kano, Lt-Gen Lagbaja revealed that 120,000 Boko Haram fighters and their families had surrendered to troops in the Northeast. Speaking at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat 2024, he emphasized the success of security agencies in combating internal challenges in the country, including the rescue of 350 abducted persons from Sambisa Forest and the thwarting of numerous kidnapping incidents.
These developments mark a significant step forward in the Nigerian Army's efforts to enhance its operational capabilities and address security challenges across the nation.
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