The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has led a high-level Programme Management Review with senior United States Government officials and representatives of Bell Textron aimed at accelerating the delivery of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
The engagement, held from 5 to 6 January 2026 in San Diego, California, forms part of the NAF’s strategic drive to strengthen its operational capacity in line with the CAS’s command philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in support of national security objectives.
During the review, Air Marshal Aneke commended the United States Government and Bell Textron for their cooperation, professionalism, and transparency in the execution of the helicopter acquisition programme. He described the programme as more than a capability upgrade, noting that it reflects the enduring defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States, founded on mutual trust, shared values, and a joint commitment to regional and global security. He also urged the programme management team to remain focused, innovative, and disciplined to ensure timely delivery within approved timelines and budget.
The CAS expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his consistent 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.
According to him, the advanced platforms will enable the NAF to conduct precision operations, provide responsive support to ground forces, protect lives and property, and more effectively neutralise terrorist and criminal threats, while reinforcing public confidence in the professionalism of the Service.
