Tinubu inducts new Agusta 109 Trekker Helicopters into Nigerian Air Force fleet

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has formally inducted two newly acquired Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fleet, marking a major step in the country’s ongoing efforts to modernise its defence capabilities.

The ceremony, held Friday at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron in Abuja as part of activities to mark the 61st anniversary of the NAF, was presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the President.

In his remarks, President Tinubu hailed the Nigerian Air Force as a “cynosure of operational excellence” and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to enhancing national security through sustained investments in military infrastructure, equipment, and personnel welfare.

“Today’s event demonstrates our unwavering commitment to strengthening our Armed Forces, especially the Air Force, for a safer and more secure Nigeria,” Tinubu said, citing the acquisition of other advanced platforms including the T-129 ATAK helicopters, King Air 360i, and Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft.

He underscored the strategic role of the Armed Forces in stabilising democracy and boosting national development, saying “neither economic prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity.”

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, described the induction as a “major milestone” in the NAF’s fleet modernisation, highlighting the helicopters’ roles in reconnaissance, close air support, joint operations, and humanitarian missions.

“The A-109 Trekker is a versatile twin-engine aircraft that enhances our ability to respond swiftly across multi-domain operations,” the CAS said. “This acquisition boosts our operational agility and supports our overarching mission of national defence and civil support.”

The ceremony ended with a flypast and inspection of the newly inducted aircraft, witnessed by top government officials, defence chiefs, and international partners.