The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has described Nigeria’s acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters as a major milestone in the Nigerian Air Force’s ongoing modernisation efforts.
Aneke made the remarks during a visit to Bell Textron in Amarillo, Texas, United States, where he led a delegation from the Nigerian Air Force for the beam signing ceremony.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
According to Aneke, the acquisition represents an important step in implementing the Nigeria-United States government defence cooperation programme and strengthening the capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He said the acquisition was also consistent with the Federal Government’s efforts to reinforce Nigeria’s defence and security architecture and provide the military with platforms capable of responding to current and emerging security threats.
The Chief of the Air Staff expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for what he described as strategic leadership and continued support for efforts to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities.
Aneke said the acquisition demonstrated the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the operational effectiveness of the armed forces and ensuring that the Nigerian Air Force remains equipped to carry out its constitutional responsibilities.
“The acquisition of the AH-1Z Viper helicopters represents an important milestone in our continuing efforts to build a more capable, professional and mission-ready Nigerian Air Force,” he said.
He added that the programme aligned with his command philosophy of maintaining a highly motivated and professional force capable of delivering airpower in coordination with surface forces to support national security objectives.
The Air Chief also stressed that the capabilities being acquired must translate into improved operational effectiveness, particularly in support of the country’s national security requirements.
Aneke acknowledged the continued cooperation of the United States Government, Bell Textron, Programme Management of Air 276 and other stakeholders involved in the AH-1Z Viper programme.
He said sustained defence cooperation, technical collaboration and continued capability development would remain important to the successful implementation of the programme.
The acquisition forms part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to modernise its military platforms and strengthen the capacity of the armed forces to respond to the country’s evolving security challenges.
