The Ministry of Defence (MoD) yesterday handed over 20 newly acquired Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) to enhance the professional capabilities of troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
A statement yesterday in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary in the MoD, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, announced the delivery of the APCs.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the APCs were handed over to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, by the permanent secretary.
In his remarks at the handing-over ceremony, Kana said the step was geared towards bolstering the nation’s defence capabilities to effectively address emerging security challenges.
The permanent secretary also said it was geared towards enhancing the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
According to him, the handover marks a significant milestone in the nation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the operational readiness of the Armed Forces.
“These Armoured Personnel Carriers will provide our troops with enhanced protection and mobility, enabling them to carry out their duties more effectively in safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty”, he said.
General Musa underscored the strategic importance of the APCs in enhancing the Armed Forces’ ability to respond swiftly and decisively to security threats.
“The acquisition of these Armoured Personnel Carriers underscores our commitment to equipping our troops with the necessary resources to confront evolving security challenges.
“I commend the Ministry of Defence for its unwavering support and dedication to strengthening our national defence capabilities”, he said.
The CDS expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for the acquisition of the APCs, saying the handover ceremony signified a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s efforts to enhance its defence capabilities and safeguard national security.
According to him, with the acquisition of the 20 APCs, the Nigerian Armed Forces are better equipped to tackle the challenges of the modern security landscape and uphold peace and stability across the nation.
NAN reports that the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye also attended the ceremony.
