The United States government has praised the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for what it described as a “high level of preparedness” ahead of the delivery of AH-1Z attack helicopters to Nigeria.
The commendation came during a three-day meeting in Abuja between a U.S. delegation from PMA-276, led by Robert Galan, and senior NAF officials.
According to a statement by the Air Force, the talks focused on a “comprehensive Programme and Support Plan” to ensure “seamless integration, sustainment, and operational effectiveness of the incoming fleet.”
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Abdullahi.
He said the Air Force is committed to “aligning all operational, technical, and logistical requirements to guarantee immediate operational readiness upon delivery of the aircraft.”
U.S. officials also commended the readiness of “designated NAF facilities where the aircraft will be domiciled,” according to the statement.
The engagement highlights what both sides described as the steady growth of Nigeria–U.S. defence cooperation, built on “mutual trust, shared security objectives, and institutional professionalism.”
The statement added that the recognition shows international confidence in the NAF’s “meticulous planning, strategic foresight, and disciplined modernisation drive.”
Beyond acquiring new helicopters, the Air Force said the partnership will “strengthen Nigeria’s airpower capability, reinforce national security architecture, and contribute meaningfully to broader national stability and sustainable development.”
The AH-1Z helicopters are expected to boost Nigeria’s capacity to respond to security threats across the country once they are delivered and deployed.
