Army to serve Nigeria better with acquisition of aircraft – COAS

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja on Thursday said the acquisition of new aircraft would help the Army serve the country better.

He also expressed hope that troops would overcome criminal elements threatening the peace of the country and guarantee economic prosperity for the country with the new aircraft.

Lagbaja spoke at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja while receiving two newly acquired helicopters.

PUNCH Online reports that two new Bell UH-1H helicopters touched down in the country at about 4:30 pm on Thursday.

The two helicopters are meant to be used for logistics, surveillance, training and casualty evacuation among others.

Lagbaja noted that the aircraft would give troops the flexibility needed on the battlefield.

He said, “We are on a learning curve in the aviation business. We hope it will be a pleasant experience that will give our troops flexibility in the field and enhance our operational successes.

“The Nigerian Army is poised to serve the nation better with the acquisition of these platforms. We shall overcome and give our people the enabling environment for economic prosperity. ”

Lagbaja noted that the Army had nurtured the desire to have an aviation wing since 1984, expressing delight that the dream has finally materialised with the acquisition of the two helicopters.

He said, “Aviation has always been a game changer, and that informs the decision for the Nigerian army to strive to acquire platforms towards the actualisation of the dream of having an army aviation arm since 1984.

“Today that dream has been actualised. We expect that the support that will be provided to the troops in the field with the acquisition of this utility helicopter, in terms of casualty evacuation, and the supply and insertion of troops in critical areas, will have greater flexibility and improve operational efficiency in the field. ”

The Army Chief stated that the aircraft were ready for deployment right away.

“If we have a mission tomorrow to pick one thing or the other to send logistics to any frontline location, they will be tasked accordingly. So they are deployed already.”

Speaking, the Coordinator, Nigerian Army Aviation, Brigadier General M.S Alkali said the helicopters would strengthen the Army’s reconnaissance, surveillance, and air mobility capabilities.

He said, “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.

“As we integrate these platforms into our operations, let us also remember that the true strength of our aviation lies in the skilled and courageous personnel who operate and maintain these machines. Their professionalism, dedication, and expertise are the bedrock upon which our success is built.”