The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has led a high-level Programme Management Review engagement with senior officials of the United States Government and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron to accelerate the delivery of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

The engagement, which took place from 5 to 6 January 2026 in San Diego, California, forms part of deliberate efforts by the NAF 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.

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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 project as more than a platform upgrade, noting that it reflects the enduring defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States, founded on mutual trust, shared values and a common commitment to regional and global security.

The CAS charged the programme management team to remain focused, innovative and disciplined to ensure the timely delivery of the helicopters within approved timelines and budgetary provisions. He emphasised that strict adherence to programme milestones is critical to enhancing the Nigerian Air Force’s readiness in addressing evolving security challenges.

Air Marshal Aneke also expressed appreciation 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 attack helicopters would significantly boost the Service’s combat capability, operational efficiency and overall mission readiness.

According to the CAS, the advanced platforms will enable the NAF to conduct highly precise air operations, provide responsive close air support to ground forces, protect lives and critical assets, and more effectively neutralise terrorist and criminal threats across various theatres of operation. He added that the enhanced capability would further strengthen public trust and confidence in the professionalism and effectiveness of the Nigerian Air Force.

The engagement marked another milestone in Nigeria–US defence cooperation and reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to leveraging strategic partnerships to build a capable and modern air force responsive to national and regional security demands.