President Bola Tinubu has called on the Nigerian Armed Forces to intensify their efforts in tackling the nation’s persistent and complex security challenges.

Speaking through Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima at the induction ceremony of newly acquired Augusta A-109 Trekker helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fleet, Tinubu emphasized that the military must be well-equipped, well-trained, and fully prepared to defend both the country and its democratic institutions.

A democratically stable Nigeria is essential for our national development and for maintaining peace across the region. The defense of democracy requires a military that is not only capable but also adequately resourced,” the President said.

The induction ceremony, held at the Presidential Air Fleet premises on Friday, coincided with the Nigerian Air Force’s 61st anniversary. The Vice President described the event as a significant milestone in the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the operational capabilities of the Air Force and the armed forces at large.

The Augusta A-109 Trekker helicopters, he said, will play a key role in combating terrorism, armed banditry, oil theft, and other security threats that continue to plague the nation.

The evolving security environment demands an agile, responsive Air Force capable of rapid deployment across diverse conflict zones. This induction is more than just the addition of aircraft it is a strategic declaration of intent. It symbolizes our collective resolve to fortify our military, protect our nation, and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership role on the continent,  Shettima stated.

He expressed optimism that the new platforms would significantly boost the Nigerian Air Force’s operational capacity, not just within the country but also in regional peacekeeping operations across West Africa.

Despite fiscal constraints, Shettima noted that the acquisition of these aircraft and other modern military hardware underlines the government’s dedication to national security. He also stressed the importance of strengthening regional cooperation to curb cross-border criminal activities.

The ongoing multinational collaboration to restore peace in the Lake Chad Basin serves as a model that should be expanded and replicated wherever necessary,” he added.