The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has announced the Army’s plans to revitalize its Air wing to enhance its operational capabilities and alleviate the burden on the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
Lagbaja made this revelation during a press briefing on Tuesday after addressing participants of Senior Course 46 at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) Jaji.
The COAS highlighted the need for the Nigerian Army to acquire helicopters that would support troops during patrols and various operations, enabling them to effectively combat adversaries.
This strategic move would also allow the NAF to focus more on delivering high operational and strategic requirements.
Furthermore, Lagbaja emphasized that the newly established air wing would empower the Army to handle tactical requirements, including air interdictions.
He clarified that both the Army and the NAF would continue to collaborate effectively to address the security challenges facing the nation.
In explaining the rationale behind acquiring helicopters, Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja mentioned that it aligns with global military practices for the Army to possess integral helicopter units while delegating strategic demands to the Air Force.
The helicopters would provide critical functions such as intelligence surveillance, reconnaissance reports, and air interdiction. However, for large-scale strategic offensives, the NAF would remain the primary force.
Discussing his command philosophy, the COAS shared that he aims to transform the Nigerian Army into a highly trained, well-equipped, and motivated force, capable of fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.
He stressed the importance of joint efforts among various military services and commanders at all levels to achieve a more effective Nigerian Army.
The Commandant of AFCSC, AVM Hassan Alhaji, expressed his gratitude to Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja for personally delivering the lecture and providing valuable insights into the direction of the Nigerian Army.
He encouraged the officers to embrace the leadership qualities advocated by the COAS to enhance their command capabilities and fulfill their assigned tasks effectively.
