The Nigerian Army Aviation Unit is set to roar to life with the arrival of two fighter jets to boost the Army’s operational capabilities.
The arrival of the Bell UH1 combat helicopters at the Nigerian Police Air wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja comes 10 years after a former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah unfolded the plan.
Current COAS, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja had in 2023 disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had approved the acquisition of 12 MD 530F Cayuse Attack Helicopters for the reenergisation of the Army Aviation unit.
Receiving the fighter jets, an elated Lt-Gen Lagbaja said the dream of getting the aviation unit into operation had come to pass.
He said: “I am glad that, as conceptualised, 10 years later, we have today(yesterday) taken delivery of our first set of platforms.
“The journey, as predicted by the initial dreamers, has not been easy, but here we are by the grace of God, realising our dream.
“We are new to this business, and as newcomers, we must acknowledge our forerunners like the NAF(Nigerian Air Force), NN(Nigerian Navy), and the NPF(Nigeria Police Force).
“We are on our learning curve in the aviation business, and we hope it will be a pleasant experience that will enhance our operational successes.”
