By Atoyebi Nike
May 16, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday commissioned two Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters into the fleet of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). The induction, which took place at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron in Abuja, was part of activities marking the 61st anniversary of the Air Force.
Represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu praised the NAF’s commitment to advancing national security and reiterated the federal government’s resolve to modernize the armed forces. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a capable and agile military in the face of evolving security challenges.
“The ceremony marks another milestone in our unwavering commitment to strengthen our Armed Forces, particularly the Air Force, towards a more secure country,” Tinubu said. “This acquisition, alongside platforms such as the Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, T-129 ATAK helicopters, and King Air 360i aircraft, underscores our resolve to prioritize fleet modernization and the welfare of our personnel.”
He affirmed that security remains a cornerstone of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that “neither economic prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity.” He urged the military to intensify its operations to decisively defeat threats to national peace and development.
President Tinubu also reflected on the NAF’s commendable contributions to regional peacekeeping missions in The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Mali, describing the service as a “cynosure of operational excellence” and a source of national pride.
Speaking on the broader implications of the helicopter induction, he added, “It is a strategic statement of intent, a demonstration of our collective resolve to defend our nation and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership in Africa.”
In his welcome address, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, hailed the induction as a key milestone in the Air Force’s modernization drive and operational readiness. He emphasized the Agusta 109 Trekker’s multi-role capability, which includes air reconnaissance, close air support, joint operations, and humanitarian missions.
“The dynamic security landscape of our nation demands an agile, well-equipped, and responsive Air Force,” Abubakar stated. “The induction of this versatile, twin-engine helicopter represents a significant leap in our operational capacity and mission efficiency.”
The CAS expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the National Assembly, the Defence Ministry, service chiefs, and Nigeria’s international partners for their steadfast support. He also paid tribute to former Air Chiefs, acknowledging their contributions to the service’s legacy and evolution.
The Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters are expected to play a crucial role in military and civil operations, ranging from battlefield deployment to disaster relief efforts. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic fly-past and inspection of the new aircraft by the Vice President, alongside top military and government officials.
