Kwara Receives New NAF Diamond-62 Aircraft

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, welcomed the arrival of the final two sets of the Diamond 62 multi-purpose platform special mission aircraft in Ilorin.

This development is expected to enhance the country’s surveillance and search-and-rescue capabilities.

Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude for the presence of the Nigerian Air Force and other sister security agencies, highlighting their role in upholding peace and security in Kwara state.

He emphasized the significance of these advanced aircraft, especially considering the Nigerian Air Force’s active presence across the nation’s various theaters of operation.

These Diamond-62 multi-purpose platform aircraft were officially introduced into the Nigerian Air Force’s inventory during the 59th Anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Air Force Day in Enugu in May 2023.

Governor AbdulRazaq praised Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar for the successful acquisition of these aircraft, which he believes will be a “game changer” in revealing the hideouts of criminal elements within and beyond Kwara.

He expressed confidence in the enhanced surveillance and search-and-rescue capabilities, particularly in support of indigenous operation HARMONY and bolstering internal security operations.

The Governor also commended the efforts of Captain Dan Apyeyak, Commander of the 303 Medium Airlift Group, for his dedicated support in maintaining peace and security since taking office in June.

The event was attended by notable figures, including Air Vice Marshal Tajudeen Yusuf, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, and Commissioner of Police Victor Olaiya, along with other heads of security agencies.

Air Marshal Abubakar revealed that the additional Diamond 62 aircraft will be deployed to areas with the greatest operational needs across the country. He highlighted their impact on land, sea, and air operations in regions such as Op HADARIN DAJI and Op HADIN KAI in the North-East and North-West.

Furthermore, he mentioned the government’s plan to acquire more combat platforms for the Nigerian Air Force and urged personnel to handle the new aircraft with care and in accordance with recommended practices.

Air Vice Marshal Tajudeen Yusuf emphasized the Diamond 62’s capability for robust ISR missions during combat operations, emphasizing its flexibility for pilot training, liaison missions, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance tasks.

In summary, the delivery of these aircraft marks a significant step in enhancing Nigeria’s security and operational efficiency.