The US Department of Defence has disclosed that the Federal Government of Nigeria procured the twelve new A-29 Super Tucano jets at a whopping $500 million, making it the highest single arms purchase in sub-Saharan Africa.
Africa Today News, New York understands that six of the jets have been delivered and ‘secretly’ inducted into the Nigerian Air Force.
The remaining batch of six is expected to be delivered by the end of the year.
Journalists were barred from covering the induction ceremony hosted by the Minister of Defence Major General Salihi Magashi (rtd) in Abuja, Tuesday.
The Commander, U.S Air Forces Europe-Africa Gen. Jeffrey Harrigian said the Super Tucanos were the impetus for the significant deepening of training and professional relationships.
He noted that ‘the Nigerian Air Force is one of our key partners that play a critical role in furthering regional security and stability.
‘This ceremony symbolises the strength of our unique partnership and underscores the value of training and working together.’
According to him, the precision targeting, air-to-ground integration, and human rights training are all included in the partnership between the U.S. and Nigeria.
Harrigian stated the aircraft will assist the Nigerian Air Force in their fight against violent extremist organisations including the Islamic State West Africa Province.
He explained that the joint structure of air-to-ground integration also supports Nigerian Army and Navy operations.
AFRICA TODAY NEWS, NEW YORK