The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has met with senior United States government officials and Bell Textron to fast-track the delivery of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
The Programme Management Review, held from January 5 to 6, 2026, focused on accelerating production timelines and ensuring on-schedule delivery of the helicopters, which are expected to significantly enhance NAF combat capability and mission readiness.
Air Marshal Aneke commended the U.S. government and Bell Textron for their cooperation and professionalism, stressing the NAF’s commitment to accountability and programme discipline.
“We remain fully committed to working closely with our partners to ensure timely and successful delivery,” he said.
He described the acquisition as a reflection of strong Nigeria–U.S. defence cooperation and a shared commitment to addressing evolving security challenges.
The CAS also directed programme managers to meet timelines and standards concurrently.
Aneke thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, noting that the AH-1Z helicopters will improve precision operations, strengthen support to ground forces, and enhance national security effort
