By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commenced the first Program Management Review (PMR) meeting with officials of the United States Government and Bell Textron Company to discuss progress made so far on the supply of the AH-1Z attack helicopters to the NAF.
This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF AVM Edward Gabkwet, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Gabkwet said the meeting followed assurance that the delivery dates for the AH-1Z attack helicopters purchased by the Federal Government was on track.
He said the US officials gave the assurance when the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, AVM Sayo Olatunde, met with officials of the US Government and Bell Textron Company.
According to him, the 5-day meeting, which began on Tuesday at NAF Headquarters is majorly aims at reviewing the progress made so far regarding the manufacture of the aircraft, ensuring smooth transition and providing technical guidance to the service.
“This collaboration demonstrates the assurance and strong partnership between Nigeria and the US in enhancing the country’s air power capabilities,” he said.
Speaking during the meeting, AVM Olatunde said the PMR meeting underscores the impending delivery of the fighter helicopters to boost NAF’s close air support and ground attack capabilities while also enhancing its modernisation efforts.
He also said that the AH-1Z Helicopters, when inducted into NAF Order of Battle, would bolster its firepower and operational capabilities, particularly in counterterrorism and counter insurgency operations.
Earlier, the US Government AH-1Z Program Management Office team leader, Mr Kevin Stone, said the collaboration between NAF and the US military was a testament to their shared commitment to regional stability, peace and security.
Stone added that the successful implementation of PMR was expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s ability to tackle security challenges and ensure the safety of its citizens. (NAN)
