President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to bolstering the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) with advanced aircraft and equipment to enhance national security.
This declaration was made during the ceremonial parade in Kaduna commemorating the NAF’s 60th anniversary.
Speaking on behalf of the President, Vice President Shettima praised the NAF’s six decades of service, stating the organization’s transformation into a resilient force adept at addressing security threats. “I bear with me today the gratitude of a nation that has watched your transformation into a formidable and resilient organization, vigilant of the dynamics and complexities of security threats within and outside our borders for this long,” he stated.
President Tinubu stated the importance of supporting the Armed Forces, noting that a secure nation is essential for development. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to modernizing the military with state-of-the-art equipment, including Beechcraft King Air 360 aircraft, Diamond 62 surveillance aircraft, T-129 ATAK helicopters, Agusta 109 Trekker multi-role helicopters, and M-346 attack aircraft.
“In my inaugural address a year ago, I noted that security would be the top priority of my administration because we can never guarantee the development we have proposed unless each part of this great nation is secure. This is why we have continued to support the modernization efforts of our Armed Forces to address national and sub-regional security challenges,” President Tinubu reiterated.
The President called for an approach to tackling Nigeria’s security challenges, acknowledging the socio-economic factors involved. He expressed confidence in the country’s economic recovery, assuring that current sacrifices will lead to a stable economic future.
President Tinubu paid tribute to the pioneers, veterans, and fallen heroes of the NAF, appreciating their dedication and service. The event also saw participation from various international partners, reflecting the theme, “Nigerian Air Force at 60: Leveraging Strategic Partnerships in Aerospace Innovations for Regional Security.”
Key dignitaries at the event included former Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Defence Ministers Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar and Alhaji Bello Matawalle, and Chiefs of the Air, Army, and Naval Staff. The ceremony featured impressive air displays and awards to distinguished officers.
Following the anniversary event, Vice President Shettima visited the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, to offer condolences for the recent loss of his brother, pharmacist Mukhtar Lawal Ismail.
