NAF Accelerates Acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Attack Helicopters to Enhance Security

opeolumartinJanuary 8, 202604 mins

San Diego, California, USA – January 8, 2026

In a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s airpower and national security architecture, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is accelerating the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters to enhance its operational capacity and combat readiness.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, recently led a Programme Management Review meeting with senior United States Government officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron in San Diego, California, USA. The high-level engagement focused on fast-tracking the delivery of the AH-1Z helicopters, a critical capability expected to significantly bolster the NAF’s ability to respond decisively to security challenges across the country.

According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the meeting underscored the NAF’s commitment to building a highly professional, agile, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in support of Nigeria’s national security objectives.
During the engagement, Air Marshal Aneke expressed deep appreciation to the United States Government and Messrs Bell Textron for their sustained cooperation, professionalism, and transparency in the execution of the helicopter acquisition programme. He noted that the AH-1Z acquisition represents more than a mere platform upgrade, describing it as a tangible reflection of the enduring defence cooperation and strategic partnership between Nigeria and the United States.
Reaffirming the NAF’s sense of urgency, the Air Chief assured the US team that his administration would take all necessary measures to ensure the helicopters are delivered in the shortest possible time. He also expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Air Force, particularly in the area of fleet modernization and platform acquisition.

Air Marshal Aneke further reassured Nigerians of the NAF’s unwavering commitment to eliminating terrorist and criminal threats across the country. He emphasized that all operations would continue to be conducted with the highest standards of professionalism, restraint, and accountability, while sustaining public trust and confidence in the Service’s operations.

The acquisition of the AH-1Z attack helicopters is expected to significantly enhance the NAF’s precision strike capability, close air support, and overall operational effectiveness in addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.