ENHANCING NAF COMBAT POWER: CAS LEADS TECHNICAL TEAM TO ITALY FOR M-346 JET, AW-109 TREKKER HELI PROCUREMENT

By: Our Reporter

A team of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) experts, led by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, along with officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, recently participated in a Programme Management Review Meeting in Italy with Messrs Leonardo S.p.A.

The meeting aimed to finalise arrangements for the NAF’s acquisition of 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack (FGA) jets as well as an additional 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters to the 2 already procured by the NAF.

While in Italy, the CAS made a strategic stopover at the Leonardo Headquarters in Rome, where he engaged with top executives to consolidate a long-term partnership between the NAF and the company. He also inspected the first batch of 6 M-346 jets, noting that 3 are nearing completion, and evaluated key support systems required to boost the NAF’s operational readiness.

In the Review Meeting, the CAS received updates on the delivery schedules, confirming that the first 3 units of 24 M-346 aircraft to be built for Nigeria are expected by early 2025, with subsequent deliveries running until mid-2026. Meanwhile, with 2 Trekkers already acquired, the additional 10 are expected by early 2026.

The CAS recommended the establishment of a Programme Management Office to oversee the collaboration and ensure smooth project implementation. He also stressed the need for a maintenance hub in Nigeria to provide long-term support, especially for the M-346 fleet.

As part of the visit, the Leonardo Aircraft Division put on an aerial display to showcase the performance of the M-346 and highlight its advanced features. Capable of both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, the M-346 will significantly strengthen Nigeria’s air combat capabilities.

On its part, the AW-109 will bolster combat support roles such as Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), tactical airlift and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) amongst others.

The M-346 and Trekker acquisitions are key steps towards fleet renewal, in consonance with the CAS Command Philosophy to transform the NAF for greater agility and resilience, with emphasis on the optimization of force structure and establishment for enhanced operational effectiveness.
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SDS KADUNA STATE COMMAND CALLS FOR STRONGER SYNERGY AMONG SECURITY AGENCIES TO COMBAT SECURITY THREATS

By: Our Reporter

In a bid to enhance security within Kaduna State, the newly appointed State Director of Security (SDS) Mr Hakeem Abiola (FSI), has called for stronger synergy and collaboration with 1 Division Nigerian Army to neutralize potential threats in Kaduna State. The SDS made this request during his maiden familiarization visit to the General Officer Commanding( GOC )1 Division Nigerian Army Major General Mayirenso Lander David Saraso on 8 October 2024.

In his remarks during the visit, Mr Abiola emphasized the critical role that synergy between security agencies plays in addressing the complex security challenges facing the State. He underscored the need for continuous cooperation between the Service and the military to tackle issues ranging from banditry to other issues of security concerns that threaten both the safety and economic stability of Kaduna State.

“We must work hand in hand not just to confront banditry, but to resolve the economic challenges intertwined with these security issues,” he stated.

In his own remarks, the GOC welcomed the new State Director of Security and his team highlighting the longstanding tradition of inter-agency cooperation within the Nigerian Army. He reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to collaborating with other sister security agencies, including the State Security Services, to safeguard the lives of citizens not only within Kaduna State but throughout the Division’s Area of Responsibility.

“The Nigerian Army has always taken the lead in fostering cooperation with sister services and other security agencies. This partnership is crucial in addressing both kinetic and non-kinetic aspects of operations,” He said

He also extended his appreciation to the State Security Services for their consistent support, particularly in providing vital intelligence that has proven instrumental in both combat and non-combat security measures.

Highlights of the visit were the signing of the visitors’ book, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph.

SDS KADUNA STATE COMMAND CALLS FOR STRONGER SYNERGY AMONG SECURITY AGENCIES TO COMBAT SECURITY THREATS

Defence Minister praises Nigerian Army for Niger Delta operations

By: Michael Mike

The Minister of Defence, His Excellency Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has commended the Nigerian Army (NA) for its significant efforts in enhancing security and promoting economic stability in the Niger Delta Region (NDR).

During his maiden operational visit to the Headquarters of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Minister lauded the Army’s pivotal role in increasing national oil production and curbing crude oil theft.

This commendation was conveyed in a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma.

“The nation relies on your continued efforts to achieve an oil production target of 2.3 million barrels per day,” the Minister remarked, acknowledging the increase in production from 1.4 to 1.7 million barrels per day. He stressed that sustaining this upward trajectory is crucial to stabilizing the country’s economy for the collective benefit of all Nigerians.

The primary purpose of the Minister’s visit was to encourage the troops and express appreciation for their dedication, particularly in combating oil theft in the NDR. He commended 6 Division for its operational achievements and highlighted the Army’s commitment to improving the welfare of its personnel, referencing the newly constructed residences for senior officers that were inaugurated during his visit.

In his briefing, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 6 Division, outlined the Division’s successes in anti-illegal bunkering operations. He reaffirmed the Division’s commitment to denying oil thieves freedom of action and creating a secure environment for oil companies to conduct their operations effectively.

Defence Minister praises Nigerian Army for Niger Delta operations