The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, says expanding the Nigerian Army’s aviation wing is a “strategic game-changer” in tackling Nigeria’s growing security threats.
Shaibu spoke Thursday at Army Headquarters in Abuja during a visit by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa.
He said the expansion of Army Aviation is a “critical pillar in the modernisation drive and a decisive force multiplier” for the Nigerian Army.
According to him, Nigeria faces an “evolving security” environment that requires better air support and faster response.
He said integrating advanced aircraft and unmanned aerial systems with ground troops will improve “response times, precision engagement and situational awareness” in different parts of the country.
“These capabilities are redefining battlefield dynamics,” Shaibu said, adding that they will help the Army “project power, dominate operational space and protect civil populace.”
However, he stressed that success depends on “sustained policy support and predictable resource allocation.”
He said steady funding, efficient procurement and strong logistics are needed to maintain “operational superiority” over time.
The Army chief also pointed to growing infrastructure needs due to increased recruitment approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
With thousands of recruits in training, he called for more barracks and better facilities to improve welfare and morale.
In his remarks, Pheelangwa described the visit as a “strategic engagement” to deepen cooperation between the Ministry of Defence and the Army.
He promised support to remove “procedural bottlenecks” and strengthen resource management in backing the Army’s aviation expansion.
The Army says the aviation upgrade will support ground troops and strengthen national security across the country.
