The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has led a high-powered delegation to the United States to accelerate the delivery of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force.
The Programme Management Review meeting, held from 5 to 6 January 2026 in San Diego, California, involved senior US Government officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron.
Addressing participants at the meeting, Air Marshal Aneke applauded the professionalism and transparency of the US Government and Bell Textron, stressing that the engagement reflected the NAF’s zero tolerance for delays, inefficiency and lack of accountability in critical defence programmes.
The CAS described the helicopter deal as a strong symbol of Nigeria–US defence cooperation, noting that it underscores a shared responsibility for tackling emerging security threats and promoting regional and global stability.
He reaffirmed the NAF’s determination to ensure the helicopters are delivered on schedule, charging the programme management team to adopt proactive strategies that align timelines with budgetary discipline.
Air Marshal Aneke also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Air Force, noting that the acquisition would significantly strengthen the Service’s operational capability and readiness.
He said the AH-1Z helicopters would enhance precision strike operations, reduce collateral damage and improve support for ground forces, assuring Nigerians of the NAF’s continued professionalism and accountability in combating terrorism and criminality.
