Barbara Barrett, the United States Secretary of the Air Force says the American government is committed to delivering the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to the Nigerian military.
In a statement by the US Embassy in Nigeria on Tuesday, it noted that the aircraft provision was in line with furthering military operations between Nigeria and the US, which also includes training 60 Nigerian military pilots, instructors and aircraft maintenance specialists over the next two years.
“The Nigerian pilots will train on the same aircraft that they will fly in combat operations against insurgent groups and terrorist organisations,” the statement said.
Barrett who was in Abuja for a visit between January 4 and 5 met members of the National Assembly as well as senior military officials at the Ministry of Defence on efforts made to strengthen all military professionalism through programmes including Air Ground Integration (AGI).
“Through AGI, the Nigerian Air Force plans to increase both its tactical and operational competencies. The training that enhances these competencies will also address the laws that govern armed conflict and respect for international human rights in ways aimed at reducing the risk of civilian harm,” she said.
Barrett also noted the importance of developing a “long-term vision for security cooperation in space” during the first-ever visit by a senior US official to the Defence Space Administration and discussed the possibility of bilateral engagement to address crucial security challenges in space.
Support Our Journalism
There are millions of ordinary people affected by conflict in Africa whose stories are missing in the mainstream media. HumAngle is determined to tell those challenging and under-reported stories, hoping that the people impacted by these conflicts will find the safety and security they deserve.
To ensure that we continue to provide public service coverage, we have a small favour to ask you. We want you to be part of our journalistic endeavour by contributing a token to us.
Your donation will further promote a robust, free, and independent media.
Donate Here
