Air Chief Engages US On Acquisition Of 12 Fighter Jets

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has met with senior United States (US) officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron to facilitate the timely delivery of 12 AZ-1Z helicopters.

This was made public by NAF spokesperson Air Cdre Ehimen Ejodame. He said the meeting took place from 5th to 6th January, 2026, in San Diego, California, USA, and focused on fast-tracking the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters.

Ejodame described the engagement as a critical capability enhancement aligned with the CAS’s Command Philosophy of building and sustaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces for the attainment of national security objectives.

In a statement NAF issued in Abuja yesterday, Air Marshal Anele was reported as expressing appreciation to the United States Government and Messrs Bell Textron for their continued cooperation, professionalism and transparency in the execution of the helicopter acquisition programme.

He said the structured review reflects the NAF’s deliberate emphasis on programme discipline, accountability, and results.

“We deeply value the professionalism and openness demonstrated throughout this process and we remain fully committed to working closely with our partners to ensure the timely and successful delivery of these platforms,” Anele said.

The Air Chief further said the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters represented more than a platform upgrade, describing it as a reflection of the enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the US.

According to him, the programme underscored a shared responsibility for regional and global security, built on mutual trust, shared values, and a common vision for peace and stability.

“This partnership speaks to our collective resolve to confront evolving security challenges through collaboration and sustained capability development,” he added.

Reaffirming the NAF’s sense of urgency and commitment, Air Marshal Aneke assured the US team that his office would take all necessary measures to ensure that the helicopters were delivered promptly.

He also charged the programme management team to work smartly and proactively to complete production on schedule and within budget. “Timelines and standards must be met concurrently. We must remain focused, innovative, and solutions-driven,” the CAS stressed.

The CAS expressed gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Air Force.

He noted that the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters would significantly enhance the NAF’s combat capability, operational efficiency, and mission readiness, thereby strengthening the Service’s ability to deliver decisive airpower in support of national security and stability.

He added that the advanced capabilities of the helicopters would enable NAF to conduct precise operations, minimise collateral damage, and provide timely and practical support to ground forces, ultimately saving lives and protecting property across affected communities.