The official reception of these new aircraft took place in Ilorin, Kwara State, on a Wednesday.
The news was relayed through a statement from the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet. During the event, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, commented on the significance of this addition. He mentioned that the process leading to the arrival of these two aircraft commenced approximately two years ago when the Federal Government allocated funds for the procurement of four Diamond-62 aircraft for the NAF.
He further explained, "Out of the four aircraft, the first two aircraft were delivered between February and July 2023, while the remaining two were being received today."
Moreover, Abubakar highlighted that the two DA-62 aircraft that were received earlier in the year have already been deployed to support ongoing peacekeeping efforts in troubled regions across the country.
As he addressed the air and ground crews responsible for these aircraft, Abubakar stressed the importance of discipline and professionalism. He urged them to ensure the proper maintenance and operation of the aircraft in accordance with the recommended best practices provided by the Original Equipment Manufacturer.
He went on to add that the NAF will in no distant time take delivery of additional platforms that include the M346FA aircraft, AW109 Trekker light attack helicopter, AH-1Z Super Cobra, T-129 ATAK helicopters and the King Air 360i Beechcraft aircraft.”
While speaking, the Kwara State Governor, Abdulrazak Abdulrahman, commended the NAF for its efforts, alongside other security agencies towards ridding the nation of its numerous security challenges.
Abdulrahman expressed his appreciation for the CAS for making Ilorin the home base of the DA-62 which is indicative of the peaceful and conducive nature of the state.
The statement added, “He then assured the CAS of his administration’s unwavering support to the NAF and other security agencies in their onerous tasks of safeguarding lives and properties.
