President Bola Tinubu has pledged his administration’s continuous support to the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies in the country in the area of fleet modernization, training and welfare of men and women of the Armed Forces.
He made the pledge on Friday at the induction ceremony of two newly acquired Agusta 109S Trekker helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force held at the Presidential Air Fleet of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu underscores the importance of a well-equipped military not just in securing the nation, but also preserving its democracy.
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“Let me use this opportunity to assure you all that my administration will continue to support the Nigerian Air Force and indeed other security agencies by giving due attention and priority to fleet modernization as well as training and welfare of our men and women in uniform,” he stated.
“As your commander-in-chief, I understand that a well-equipped military is essential not only for securing our nation but also for preserving our democracy.
“A democratically stable Nigeria is fundamental to our national progress and regional peace. And the defence of democracy requires a military that is well-prepared, well-trained and well-equipped. We also recognize that the security of a nation is intrinsically linked to its economic growth and social stability.
“Accordingly, my administration will remain steadfast in modernizing the armed forces. Ensuring that you have the best tools to perform your duties effectively,” President Tinubu said.
He further assured that his government will invest more in defence technologies especially for the Air Force.
“We will continue to invest in cutting-edge defence technologies and provide our military with the resources needed to counter both conventional and assistive weapons.
“This investment in air power allows you to have broader vision to create a buoyant and self-sufficient economy for local and foreign investments to thrive, and for our people to engage in meaningful productive ventures. It is for this reason that strengthening national security for peace and prosperity is a key priority area in the renewed hope agenda,” he said.
The President noted that the Nigerian military is gaining traction in its fight against terrorists, bandits and other non-state actors bent on disrupting the peace of the country.
He commended the men and women in uniform for their sacrifices and commitment to protecting the territorial integrity of the nation.
“Your efforts are finally wrapping up our onslaught against the enemy. You must therefore step up and intensify your efforts at conclusively ending the 19-dimensional security challenges facing our dear country.
“We must also continue to collaborate with our contiguous neighbours in order to checkmate the activities of these criminals across our shared borders. In this regard, the multinational collaboration to bring peace to the Lake Chad region is an example that must be improved upon and replicated wherever necessary.
“For us to retain our relevance in such collaborations, it is critical that we remain professional, continually build our capacity and adequately equip our armed forces and other security agencies.
“Be rest assured that under my leadership, the federal government will continue to report professionalized and equipped security agencies for effective discharge of their constitutional duties to our nation and across the sub-region.
“Globally, conflicts in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa continue to shape international security dynamics. These realities also demand that we remain vigilant, adaptable. And proactive in safeguarding our national interests. The Nigerian armed forces must therefore be prepared not only to address domestic security concerns but also to participate in regional and international peacekeeping efforts that promote stability and collective security.
“This induction ceremony, therefore, is not merely about adding new helicopters to our fleet. It is a strategic statement of intent. A demonstration of our collective resolve to strengthen our armed forces, defend our nation, and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa.
Source: Channels TV
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