The Nigerian Army on Thursday 20th June 2024 took delivery of its first batch of Air platforms as it launches and operationalized the Nigerian Army Aviation vision.
The Nigerian Army Aviation vision which was conceived 10 years ago by the past leadership of the Nigerian Army came to life with the the Bell UH1 helicopters recieved by the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja at the Nigerian Police Airwing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja.
The Chief of Army Staff who was elated for the take off of the aviation wing recalled that the renewed drive to have a Nigerian Army aviation wing started when the former COAS, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah (rtd), established and Operationalized the Nigerian Army Aviation Coordination Office in 2014 with a 10 year implementation plan segmented into 3 phases now being realised with first set of Air crafts.
He acknowledged the pursuit of the dream by all the past Chiefs that came after General Minima, including Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, Lieutenant General Attahiru and Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya for their tenacity, drive, and the collective effort of the military personnel and government officials that have proven to be instrumental in the journey of realising the Army Aviation.
The Army Chief equally appreciated the past administrations from 2014 for their support in training the pilots and ground crews and putting in place necessary structures over the years as well as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, for fulfilling his promise to fund the acquisition of the platforms and providing the necessary funding to realise the Army Aviation dream.
"The Nigerian Army is in the business as newcomers while acknowledging the forerunners like the NAF, Nigerian Navy, and the Nigerian Police Force".
In his address, the Coordinator Nigerian Army Aviation, Brigadier General Shehu Musa Alkhali described the arrival of the Nigerian ARMY Vanguard Air platforms as significant milestone in the NA's ongoing efforts to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Army Aviation.
According to General Alkhali, the introduction of the advanced air platforms marks a new chapter in the operational readiness and ability of the Army to respond swiftly and effectively to diverse security challenges.
He said the platforms are not just an addition to the Nigerian Army fleet but a leap forward in its quest for excellence and efficiency towards getting Nigerian Army aviation operational.
"The acquisition of these air platforms is a clear demonstration of our resolve to continuously improve and adapt in the face of evolving security landscapes. These platforms will significantly bolster the NA's reconnaissance, surveillance, and air mobility capabilities, thereby enhancing our overall operational effectiveness"
"Our journey to this point has been defined by rigorous planning, meticulous execution, and the unwavering support of the NA leadership and partners. I would like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of all those involved in this project, from our well respected Consultant Maj Gen Emeka O. rtd, and strategic planners as well as international partners".
Earlier the Consultant for the Nigerian Army Aviation Major General Emeka O. retired appreciation the sustained vision over the years that saw to the birthing of the Nigerian Army aviation.
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