In a bid to enhance its military capabilities, Nigeria has announced plans to procure 24 fighter jets from Italian aerospace company, Leonardo.
The decision was confirmed by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, on Friday.
These fighter jets are expected to significantly strengthen Nigeria's air force, with the procurement being carried out in four batches, each consisting of six jets.
According to the Air Force statement, the first batch of six M-346 fighter aircraft is slated to arrive in the country before the year's end.
This announcement came following a recent visit by Claudio Sabatino, Vice President of Leonardo, to Nigeria's air force chief in Abuja earlier in the week.
As part of the agreement, Leonardo will also provide a minimum of 25 years of maintenance support for the acquired aircraft.
The move underscores Nigeria's commitment to combatting insurgency, particularly in the northeast region where groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State affiliate are active.
Additionally, the country faces challenges of widespread kidnapping and banditry, prompting efforts to bolster its defense capabilities.
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