“The Nigerian Army has launched an aviation wing and acquired advanced BELL UH-1H fighter helicopters to improve its operational capabilities and address national security challenges. This initiative marks a major milestone in the army’s efforts to provide enhanced air support for ground operations.”
In a significant move to enhance national security, the Federal Government has established an aviation wing for the Nigerian Army and acquired advanced fighter helicopters for its operations. This development was announced by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, who highlighted the arrival of the BELL UH-1H, HUEY helicopters at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Friday.
The establishment of the Nigerian Army Aviation Wing is expected to significantly bolster the army’s operational capabilities. The new BELL UH-1H helicopters are equipped with advanced sensors and enablers, enabling them to conduct a wide range of missions including reconnaissance, surveillance, rescue, logistics, transportation, and medical evacuation.
Major General Nwachukwu’s statement emphasized the importance of this development: “NA has taken a significant step in enhancing its operational capabilities with the delivery of the first batch of new aircraft. The berthing of the aircraft marks a significant milestone in the development of the Nigerian Army Aviation’s capacity to provide air support for ground operations.”
The helicopters were formally received by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, during a brief ceremony at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Thursday, June 20, 2024. General Lagbaja noted that the renewed drive to establish the NA Aviation Wing was initially conceived by former COAS, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah (retired), in 2014, under a three-phase ten-year implementation plan.
General Lagbaja praised former Chiefs of Army Staff for their tenacity and the collective efforts of military personnel and the Nigerian Government’s political will, which were instrumental in realizing the fruition of the NA Aviation. He expressed gratitude to various successive administrations for their support in training NA pilots and ground crews and for establishing the necessary infrastructure.
The Army Chief also acknowledged the support from sister services and the Nigerian Police Force Aviation wing, which has been crucial in this achievement. He assured that the NA is now better equipped to serve the nation and provide an enabling environment for economic prosperity with the new platforms.
Brigadier General Musa Alkali, Coordinator of Nigerian Army Aviation, remarked that the arrival of the Nigerian Army Aviation Vanguard platforms is a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Army Aviation. This initiative aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy of improving the army’s ability to provide comprehensive air support for ground operations.
This enhancement of the Nigerian Army’s capabilities is a pivotal step in addressing insecurity and ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
Support Afnews Independent Journalism
At Afnews, we are dedicated to providing accurate, insightful, and timely news coverage. Our commitment to journalistic integrity ensures that you receive trustworthy information, unfiltered and unbiased. To maintain our independence and continue delivering quality content, we rely on the support of our readers.
If you value the work we do, please consider making a contribution. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the stories that matter.
Donate today and help us keep independent journalism alive. Thank you for your support!
