Nigerian Army Bolsters Anti-Terror Efforts with New Combat Aircraft.
The Nigerian Army has received its first batch of new combat aircraft, marking a significant enhancement in its operational capabilities. This milestone was announced by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, in a statement from Abuja.
The newly delivered aircraft, BELL UH-1H (HUEY) helicopters, were officially received by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja at a ceremony held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. General Lagbaja highlighted that the initiative to establish an Army Aviation wing was initially conceived by former COAS, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah (rtd), in 2014 with a phased ten-year implementation plan.
General Lagbaja acknowledged the efforts of past Army Chiefs and the political support from the Nigerian Government, emphasizing that their combined efforts were crucial in achieving this aviation milestone. He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to funding the acquisition of these aircraft and supporting the Army’s operational enhancements.
The BELL UH-1H helicopters are equipped with advanced sensors and are capable of conducting a variety of missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance, rescue operations, logistics, transportation, and medical evacuations. General Lagbaja noted that the acquisition of these helicopters will enable the Nigerian Army to provide better service and create a secure environment conducive to economic prosperity.
Brigadier General Musa Alkali, Coordinator of Nigerian Army Aviation, remarked that the arrival of these aircraft represents a significant step forward in enhancing the Army’s capabilities in line with the COAS’s Command Philosophy. This acquisition demonstrates the Army’s ongoing commitment to improving and adapting its operations in response to evolving security challenges.
Major General Emeka Onwuamaegbu (retired), a consultant for the Nigerian Army Aviation and a trained helicopter pilot, praised the sustained vision and efforts that led to the establishment of the Army Aviation wing. He also acknowledged the contributions of international partners in realizing this goal.
Overall, the introduction of these new combat aircraft is expected to significantly boost the Nigerian Army’s reconnaissance, surveillance, and air mobility capabilities, enhancing its effectiveness in combating terrorism and banditry.
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