Officers of the Nigerian Air Force have met with senior United States officials and representatives of Bell Textron to fast-track the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, a critical capability upgrade intended to bolster Nigeria’s counterterrorism and security operations across the country.

The Programme Management Review meeting, led by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, took place from January 5 to 6, 2026, in San Diego, California.

According to NAF spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame, the engagement focused on assessing the status of the helicopter acquisition programme, addressing logistical challenges, and ensuring timely delivery within agreed timelines and budget.

“In a strategic move to enhance operational capacity, the meeting was aimed at fast-tracking the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z helicopters, aligned with the CAS’s philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with ground forces,” the statement said.

Aneke expressed appreciation to the United States Government and Bell Textron for their professionalism and transparency, describing the programme as more than a platform upgrade.

“This acquisition reflects the enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States and underscores our shared responsibility for regional and global security,” he said.

The CAS assured that the NAF would take all necessary measures to ensure the helicopters’ delivery in the shortest possible time, while emphasising that the programme management team must remain innovative, solutions-driven, and focused on meeting both timelines and operational standards.

He also credited President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Air Force.

The advanced AH-1Z helicopters are expected to significantly enhance the NAF’s combat capability, operational efficiency, and mission readiness.

With precision strike capabilities, the platforms will enable highly targeted operations, reduce collateral damage, and provide timely and effective support to ground forces, ultimately saving lives and protecting property in affected communities.

Nigeria’s purchase of 12 AH-1Z helicopters, valued at $455m, was first approved by the United States government in April 2022, when the Defence Security Cooperation Agency cleared a potential Foreign Military Sale

Bell Textron was formally awarded the production and delivery contract on March 12, 2024.

The meeting also comes amid a broader security partnership between Nigeria and the United States.

On Christmas night, U.S. forces carried out airstrikes in Sokoto State targeting Islamic State-affiliated militants collaborating with the Lakurawa jihadist group and local armed “bandit” networks.

Nigeria will now take the lead in subsequent counterterrorism air operations, while U.S. forces transition primarily to intelligence support, although further strikes remain possible if necessary.

The Sokoto strikes followed a diplomatic dispute over alleged persecution and violence against Christians in Nigeria, which President Donald Trump had described as “genocide” — claims rejected by the Nigerian government.

The issue has since been resolved, resulting in strengthened cooperation between both countries. Analysts note that increased U.S. reconnaissance flights over Nigeria have accompanied the recent partnership, underscoring a sustained commitment to joint security objectives.

The meeting and fast-tracking of the AH-1Z helicopters underscore Nigeria’s strategic focus on enhancing its airpower, countering insurgency, and securing the North-East and North-West regions, where Boko Haram, Islamic State factions, and armed bandits have carried out attacks on civilians, security personnel, and critical infrastructure for over a decade.

Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to eliminating terrorist and criminal threats with professionalism, accountability, and restraint, while maintaining public trust and confidence in its operations.

The acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters, he stated, represents a decisive step toward building a highly capable air force ready to confront evolving security challenges and strengthen national and regional stability. (PUNCH)

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