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NAF chief finalizes acquisition of M-346 fighter jets, AW109 helicopters in Italy
By Francesca Hangeior
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, alongside officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, participated in a crucial Programme Management Review Meeting in Italy to finalize the acquisition of two squadrons of M-346 fighter aircraft and additional AW109 Trekker helicopters from Leonardo S.p.A.
In a statement by Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of NAF Public Relations, it was revealed that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to acquire 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack (FGA) jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, adding to the two already procured.
During his visit, Air Marshal Abubakar made a strategic stop at Leonardo’s headquarters in Rome, where he engaged with top executives to strengthen long-term cooperation between NAF and the company.
He also inspected the first batch of six M-346 jets, noting that three were nearing completion, and reviewed key support systems needed to enhance NAF’s operational readiness.
The meeting provided updates on delivery schedules, with the first three M-346 units expected by early 2025 and subsequent deliveries continuing until mid-2026. The additional 10 Trekker helicopters are scheduled for delivery by early 2026.
The CAS recommended establishing a Programme Management Office to oversee the collaboration and ensure smooth project execution, and also called for a maintenance hub in Nigeria to support the M-346 fleet long-term.
Leonardo showcased the M-346’s capabilities in an aerial display, highlighting its versatility in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, while the AW109 Trekker is expected to enhance combat support roles such as Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), tactical airlift, and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC).
These acquisitions mark key steps in NAF’s fleet renewal, aligning with Air Marshal Abubakar’s vision of transforming the force for greater agility, resilience, and operational effectiveness.
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APC will flush out PDP in Osun In 2026’ –APC chieftain ,Oyelude boasts
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, Prince Oladele Oyelude, has expressed confidence in the party’s preparedness to assume leadership in 2026 in the state.
In a recent interview with journalists in Osogbo, Oyelude criticized the current administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke, citing dwindling revenue generation as evidence of ineffectiveness
Oyelude pointed out that Osun has the lowest Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the Southwest, with a mere 2 billion naira, despite inflation and fuel subsidy removal.
He advised Governor Adeleke to appoint capable individuals to key portfolios, suggesting that the governor might be hiding something.
The APC chieftain also berated the Commissioner for Agriculture, describing the sector as a “write-off.”
He said, “In the Agricultural sector, it’s even a write-off. I don’t even know the commissioner for agric in Osun State is. Maybe he has no idea or he should be sacked. We were shown some tractors and today no one can say those tractors are working.”
Prince Oyelude questioned the commissioner’s competence and suggested that the governor should consider replacing him.
Regarding the APC’s preparedness for the 2026 elections, Oyelude emphasized that the party is “grounded and ready” to take over.
However, he cautioned against prioritizing zoning, advocating for a credible candidate from any zone to fly the party’s flag.
“As opposition trying to take over, zone shouldn’t be our major priorities. Just look at the last elections, Southeast has been clamouring for presidency but APC and PDP did not believe they can get bulk votes from that region and Southwest favoured our party. That’s how it works.” He concluded.
News
Fire destroys 3 radio Stations in Abia
By Kayode Sanny
A popular radio station in Abia, Enyimba 94.3fm, and its sister stations, Legend 98.3fm, and Rose 101.9fm Aba have shut down operations following attack by arsonists on Saturday.
The management in a statement on Sunday said the stations were targeted for fire attacks.
It said the staff members were unhurt arising from the incident which happened the same day local government elections were held across the 17 local government areas in Abia.
“As a way of exercising caution, we have made the difficult decision to temporarily shut down operations across all three stations.
This will enable us to assess the damage, and carry out precautionary measures in order to emerge stronger and better”, the management said in a statement.
The management of Emyimba TV and Radio Ltd also expressed gratitude for the swift response and assistance from its community, which it said helped bring the fire under control.
“We will keep you updated on our progress and look forward to returning to the airwaves soon”, it stated
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