The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, led a Programme Management Review meeting with senior United States government officials and representatives from Messrs Bell Textron from the 5th to 6th of January 2026 in San Diego, California, USA, focusing on fast-tracking the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters, said in a statement on Thursday, the 8th of January, 2026, that the acquisition forms a critical part of the CAS’ vision to build and sustain a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects alongside surface forces to achieve national security objectives.
During the engagement, Air Marshal Aneke expressed gratitude to the United States government and Messrs Bell Textron for their ongoing cooperation, professionalism, and transparency in the execution of the helicopter acquisition programme.
He highlighted that the structured review underscores the NAF’s deliberate emphasis on programme discipline, accountability, and results.
“We deeply value the professionalism and openness demonstrated throughout this process, and we remain fully committed to working closely with our partners to ensure the timely and successful delivery of these platforms,” the CAS stated.
Air Marshal Aneke further described the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters as more than a mere platform upgrade, framing it as a reflection of the enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
According to him, the programme also highlights a shared responsibility for regional and global security, grounded in mutual trust, shared values, and a common vision for peace and stability.
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“This partnership speaks to our collective resolve to confront evolving security challenges through collaboration and sustained capability development,” he added.
Reaffirming the NAF’s sense of urgency, Air Marshal Aneke assured the US team that his administration would take all necessary measures to ensure the helicopters are delivered in the shortest possible time.
He further charged the programme management team to work smartly and proactively to complete production on schedule and within budget.
“Timelines and standards must be met concurrently. We must remain focused, innovative, and solutions-driven,” the CAS stressed.