The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken delivery of two brand-new Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters, boosting the country’s air power capability. The induction ceremony was held at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron in Abuja on Friday, May 16, 2025, as part of activities marking the 61st anniversary of the NAF.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized the importance of a well-equipped military in ensuring national security. “Neither economic prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity,” he said, reiterating his administration’s commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, highlighted the significance of the new helicopters in supporting joint operations, air reconnaissance, close air support, and humanitarian missions. “The dynamic security landscape of our nation demands an agile, well-equipped, and responsive Air Force,” he said.

The NAF is expected to receive 49 additional aircraft in the next two years, including 10 more Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters, 12 AH-1 Zulu attack helicopters, 24 M-346 attack and ground attack aircraft, and three CASA 295 medium airlift aircraft. This acquisition will significantly enhance the NAF’s precision strike, ground attack, and air mobility capabilities.

Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and other senior personnel of the Armed Forces, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa, and Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, were in attendance at the ceremony.