The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Tuesday recorded a major operational milestone with the commissioning of a reactivated Super Puma helicopter (NAF 565) at the 205 Rotary Wing, Ikeja, Lagos, significantly strengthening its airpower projection and operational readiness.
Performing the commissioning on 4 February 2026, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the event as a strategic boost to national security and a clear demonstration of the Service’s renewed commitment to sustaining decisive air operations across the country.
He noted that the return of the aircraft to active service symbolised more than just fleet expansion, but reflected the Nigerian Air Force’s determination to maintain a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force.
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“This occasion is not merely about the return of an aircraft to our fleet, but a demonstration of our unwavering commitment to enhance and sustain a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force,” Air Marshal Aneke stated.
The CAS emphasised that the restoration of legacy platforms such as the Super Puma helicopter remained a critical component of the NAF’s strategy to strengthen operational effectiveness and maintain superiority in ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
Air Marshal Aneke expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for the sustained support being extended to the Nigerian Air Force, noting that the Renewed Hope Agenda was yielding tangible results in the form of improved military capabilities.
He explained that government investment in strategic acquisitions and the restoration of grounded aircraft had significantly enhanced the Service’s capacity to respond promptly to emerging security threats.
Describing the Super Puma helicopter as an indispensable asset, the CAS said the platform had over the years proven its worth as a dependable workhorse of the Nigerian Air Force.
“The Super Puma is a workhorse whose role is second to none in the Nigerian Air Force,” he said.
He highlighted the aircraft’s versatility, stressing its critical role in troop transportation, casualty evacuation, search and rescue missions, logistics support and special operations.
According to him, the platform has played a vital role in Operation HADIN KAI in the North-East and other joint security operations nationwide, providing air mobility and firepower support to ground forces.
Air Marshal Aneke commended the consultant on the project, retired Air Commodore TA Badru, as well as the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command and the technical personnel of 205 Rotary Wing for their professionalism, diligence and technical expertise that led to the successful reactivation of the helicopter.
He charged all personnel to maintain the highest standards of discipline, safety and maintenance culture in order to preserve the aircraft and ensure optimal performance.
“Let it reflect our strong culture of airmanship, maintenance and pride,” the CAS urged, stressing that adherence to best practices remained fundamental to mission success.
The reactivation of the Super Puma helicopter is widely seen as part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Air Force to revitalise its fleet, enhance operational efficiency and deliver sustained airpower in support of national security objectives.
Military analysts believe the development will further improve the NAF’s ability to conduct rapid response operations, humanitarian missions and complex joint operations across Nigeria’s various theatres of engagement.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by senior NAF officers, aviation experts and other stakeholders, marking another significant step in the modernisation and re-equipment drive of the Nigerian Air Force.
