A team from the Nigerian Air Force, senior officials of the United States Government and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron have meet to facilitate the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack
The NAF spokesperson, Ehimen Ejodame, announced this on Saturday, saying the meeting was held during a Programme Management Review meeting led by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, from 5 to 6 January 2026 in San Diego, California, United States.
He said the meeting assessed the status of the helicopter acquisition and measures to ensure timely delivery of the 12 AH-1Z platforms.
Aneke said the review was aimed at strengthening programme oversight, accountability and adherence to agreed timelines and budget.
The statement said “the engagement also focused on a critical capability enhancement aligned with the CAS’s Command Philosophy of building and sustaining a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces for the attainment of national security objectives,” the statement partly read.
Aneke said the structured review reflects the NAF’s deliberate emphasis on programme discipline, accountability and results, adding that the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters represents more than a platform upgrade, describing it as a reflection of the enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
The programme underscores a shared responsibility for regional and global security, built on mutual trust, shared values, and a common vision for peace and stability, the CAS said, adding that “This partnership speaks to our collective resolve to confront evolving security challenges through collaboration and sustained capability development,” he added.
He reaffirmed the NAF’s sense of urgency and commitment, and assured the US team that his administration would take all necessary measures to ensure the helicopters are delivered in the shortest possible time.
Aneke also 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.
