In an effort to step up ongoing air operations against national insecurity, the Nigerian Air Force on Wednesday has acquired two more Diamond-62 aircraft at a brief ceremony in Ilorin, Kwara State capital.
This was said in a statement made by Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF’s director of public relations and information.
The Federal Government appropriated funds for the purchase of four Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF about two years ago, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said in his remarks during the ceremony. This started the process that culminated in the arrival of the two additional aircraft.
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.”
Abubakar continued by saying that the two DA-62 aircraft that were acquired earlier this year have since been sent to the operating rooms to assist with ongoing efforts to restore stability and peace in the nation’s difficult regions.
Abubakar warned the air and ground crew that will be in charge of the aircraft not to compromise on professionalism and discipline. “ensure the proper maintenance and operation of the aircraft in line with recommended best practices by the Original Equipment Manufacturer.”
He also implored them to leverage the capabilities available on the aircraft to enhance NAF’s operational efficiency.
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.”
While speaking, the Kwara State Governor, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, commended the NAF for its efforts, alongside other security agencies towards ridding the nation of its numerous security challenges.
Abdulrahman expressed his appreciation for the CAS for making Ilorin the home base of the DA-62 which is indicative of the peaceful and conducive nature of the state.
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.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, AVM Tajudeen Yusuf, noted that the “acquisition of the DA-62 aircraft stems from its ability to carry out robust missions in furtherance of combat operations.
