President Bola Tinubu has pledged to continue supporting the modernisation of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to bolster national security.

Mr Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, said this at the 60th anniversary ceremonial parade of the NAF, on Saturday in Kaduna.

Other events included an aerial display and a flying-out parade for the members of 37 and 38 Regular Courses, out of which 30 were AVM’s and nine were of the rank of Brig.-Gen. 

The theme of the celebration is ‘NAF at 60: Leveraging Strategic Partnership in Aerospace Innovations for Regional Security’.

He said that in the federal government’s pursuit of regional peace and security, the NAF has given it a sense of pride and optimism with its capabilities and sense of projection on the employment of air power.

Commending the NAF’s quality of aerial display and combat readiness at the occasion, Mr Tinubu said it attested to their dedication to duty.

Restating security as a top priority of his administration, he said that development cannot be guaranteed in an unsecured environment.

This, he stressed, formed the federal government’s idea to continue supporting the NAF and the Armed Forces in general, for the development of the nation and its regions.

Describing the NAF as being built on advanced technological assets, Mr Tinubu said the federal government was poised to support them.

The president said, “This is never too ambitious for any service that is passionate about discharging its mandate for the nation’s overall development.

“We have made substantial investment in procuring state-of-the-art multi-role combat air attack helicopters and other platforms that will enhance the NAF’s capabilities.”

Mr Tinubu listed some of the platforms to include surveillance aircraft, T129 attack helicopters, Augusta 109 multi-role helicopters, Diamond 62 surveillance aircraft and M46 attack aircraft, among others.

Speaking further, he disclosed that other platforms would be coming in shortly.

According to him, the best way to understand contemporary security challenges is to adopt a societal approach.

Mr Tinubu promised to continue supporting the NAF and the armed forces in general for the realisation of the nation’s quest for sustainable peace and security.

He congratulated the NAF on its 60th anniversary while praying for the repose of the souls of those who died in active service to the nation.

(NAN)