The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has received two additional Diamond-62 (DA-62) aircraft in Ilorin, Kwara State.
In a statement by the director of public relations and information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the aircraft are part of the four procured by the federal government two years ago.
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The chief of the air staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, stated in his remarks that the process that culminated in the reception of the two additional aircraft began about two years ago when the federal government appropriated funds for the acquisition of four Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF.
He said, “Out of the four aircraft, the first two were delivered between February and July 2023, while the remaining two were being received today”.
The CAS noted that the two DA-62 aircraft received earlier in the year have since been deployed to the operating theaters in support of the ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in troubled areas within the country.
Air Marshal Hasan who urged the air and ground crew that would handle the aircraft to eschew discipline and professionalism, admonished them to also ensure the proper maintenance and operation of the aircraft in line with recommended best practices by the Original equipment Manufacturer.
He also implored them to leverage the capabilities available on the aircraft to enhance NAF’s operational efficiency.
The CAS, in paying glowing tribute to the federal government for its commitment to revamping the fortunes of the NAF and other services, also noted that the receipt of the two additional DA-62 aircraft confirms the sincerity and commitment of the government towards ensuring that peace returns to hitherto troubled spots.
He added that the NAF will in no distant time take delivery of additional platforms that include the M346FA aircraft, the AW109 Trekker light attack helicopter, the AH-1Z Super Cobra, the T-129 ATAK helicopters, and the King Air 360i Beechcraft aircraft.
In his remarks at the occasion, the governor of Kwara State, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, commended the NAF for its efforts, alongside other security agencies, towards ridding the nation of its numerous security challenges.
He also expressed appreciation to the CAS for making Ilorin the home base of the DA-62, which is indicative of the peaceful and conducive nature of the state.
He then assured the CAS of his administration’s unwavering support for the NAF and other security agencies in their onerous tasks of safeguarding lives and properties.
In his welcome address, the air officer commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal Tajudeen Yusuf, said the acquisition of the DA-62 aircraft stems from its ability to carry out robust missions in furtherance of combat operations. He then added that domiciling the DA-62 under 303 Medium Airlift Group in Ilorin will no doubt go a long way in breathing life into the unit while enhancing its operational activities.