Nigeria unveiled its own drone on
Tuesday, appropriately named “GULMA,” (Hausa word for gossip).
The unveiling was done by President
Goodluck Jonathan at Nigeria Air Force base in Kaduna, North central Nigeria
The unmanned aerial vessel was
designed and constructed by the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) in collaboration with
other local institutions. The President described the launch of the UAV as a
”landmark moment” in Nigeria’s history.
He also supervised the winging of 11
locally trained UAV pilots at the occasion.
”Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment, I now unveil the Nigerian-made
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, also known as GULMA,” President Jonathan said at the
occasion.
”Considering the potential impact of
its benefit and versatility, I cannot but say, how proud I am of the men and
women of our Armed Forces.
“Apart from their commitment to the
protection of our sovereignty, they are helping to keep our nation ahead in
military science and technology and to keep their civilian counterparts, on
their toes,” the President said.
”In the year past, we have launched
the first indigenous combat vessel, developed by our Navy, and various armored
and operational vehicles developed by the Nigerian Army.
To all of you, I say thank you. Your
collective efforts have opened a new vista of innovation and opportunity for
our nation,” he added.
Analysts believe the UAV would be
deployed to monitor the activities militant Islamic sect, Boko Haram, which has
been operating in the rugged mountains and forests of Nigeria’s North east.
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