Officers of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have met with senior officials of the United States Government and representatives of Bell Textron to fast-track the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, a key upgrade to Nigeria’s aerial combat capabilities.
The meeting took place during a Programme Management Review held from 5 to 6 January 2026 in San Diego, California, and was led by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
According to a statement issued Thursday by NAF spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame, the engagement focused on reviewing the status of the helicopter acquisition, strengthening programme oversight, ensuring accountability, and confirming adherence to timelines and budgetary commitments.
“The review is a strategic initiative to enhance the operational capacity of the Nigerian Air Force,” the statement said. “It aligns with the Chief of Air Staff’s philosophy of building a professional, highly motivated, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in support of national security objectives.”
Air Marshal Aneke expressed appreciation to the United States Government and Bell Textron for their professionalism, transparency, and cooperation throughout the acquisition process. He emphasized that the structured review demonstrates the NAF’s commitment to programme discipline, results, and timely delivery.
“This acquisition represents more than a platform upgrade—it is a reflection of the enduring defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States,” Aneke said. “It underscores our shared responsibility for regional and global security, built on mutual trust, shared values, and a common vision for peace and stability.”
Reaffirming the NAF’s sense of urgency, the Chief of Air Staff assured the U.S. team that all necessary measures would be taken to ensure delivery of the helicopters in the shortest possible time.
He also urged the programme management team to work proactively to complete production on schedule and within budget, stressing that “timelines and standards must be met concurrently. We must remain focused, innovative, and solutions-driven.”
Aneke thanked President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Air Force.
He noted that the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters would significantly enhance combat capability, operational efficiency, and mission readiness, enabling precise operations that minimize collateral damage while providing effective support to ground forces.
“The advanced capabilities of these helicopters will help the NAF protect lives and property, while maintaining professionalism, restraint, and accountability,” the CAS added.
Nigeria’s purchase of the 12 AH-1Z helicopters was first approved by the U.S. government in April 2022, when the U.S. State Department, through the Defence Security Cooperation Agency, cleared a potential Foreign Military Sale.
The formal production and delivery contract, valued at $455 million, was awarded to Bell Textron on 12 March 2024 by the U.S. Department of Defence.
