By Linus Aleke, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), said that it has taken delivery of the newly acquired improved version of the Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC’s) to fight insecurity in the country.
In a brief ceremony in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana who represented the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar handed over the documents and keys of 20 APC to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa.
Acting Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, in a statement on Thursday said the newly acquired military hardware will boost the fight against insecurity in the country.
The APC’s, he said, are improved version with improved weapons and communication systems that can locate adversaries from distance and engage them effectively.
The Acting Director noted that the new variants of APCs, also allow for seamless military operations.
While handing over the equipment to DHQ, the Permanent Secretary, said he is happy with the current synergy existing among the services, while describing the consideration for contracting local manufacturers for the production of the APC’s as a welcome development.
He added that this will save the nation a lot of money, create employment for Nigerians and reduce over reliance on foreign currency.
In his response, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, applauded the Minister of Defence for the noble act.
He pledged to put the carriers to optimum and judicious use.
The CDS added that the machines will definitely boost the ongoing operations to rid the country of insecurity.
However, the Defence Spokesperson, recalled that the APC’s were produced and supplied by an indigenous company based in Nigeria.
The chairman of the company, Engr. Kola Balogun, said, the company will also train operators and provide after purchase services like maintenance of spare parts, and repairs.
He concluded that the company will soon start exporting these machines to earn foreign currency for the country.
