Defense Minister Badaru Attends Induction Ceremony of Nigerian Air Force’s T-129 ATAK Helicopters and King Air 360i Aircraft
By Aysha S. Rabo
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) held an induction ceremony on Tuesday, February 7, 2024, at NAF Base in Makurdi, Benue State, to formally induct its newly acquired T-129 ATAK helicopters and King Air 360i aircraft into service.
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The ceremony was graced by the presence of prominent dignitaries, including the Honorable Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, and Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, representing the guest of honor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In his address, Minister Badaru lauded President Tinubu’s dedication to fostering peace across Nigeria and expressed gratitude for his leadership and support of the Armed Forces amidst various challenges.
He emphasised the importance of adhering to maintenance schedules and implementing robust safety protocols to ensure the continual operational readiness of the aircraft, maximising their utility for the nation’s benefit.
The Minister urged NAF personnel to align their efforts with the President’s vision of fostering peace, stability, and rapid development, stressing the imperative of pursuing objectives aimed at achieving these goals.
Vice President Shettima, on behalf of President Tinubu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to bolstering the capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force. “President Tinubu’s steadfast support for the armed forces is one you could count on any day. To this administration, your welfare is a top priority within the framework of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda,” he emphasise.
In a humorous remark, The Minister playfully dubbed himself as the “calculator,” signifying his commitment to ensuring meticulous and effective servicing, maintenance, and utilisation of the aircraft under his purview.
The ceremony was also attended by the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Hyacinth Alia, Minister of Information and Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Hidayet Bayraktar, members of the national assembly, and several senior military officers, both serving and retired.
Defense Minister Badaru Attends Induction Ceremony of Nigerian Air Force’s T-129 ATAK Helicopters and King Air 360i Aircraft