Officers of the Nigerian Air Force have engaged senior officials of the United States Government and representatives of Bell Textron as part of efforts to fast-track the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s counterterrorism and internal security operations nationwide.

The engagement took place during a Programme Management Review meeting led by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, from January 5 to 6, 2026, in San Diego, California.

According to the Nigerian Air Force spokesperson, Ehimen Ejodame, the meeting focused on reviewing the current status of the helicopter acquisition programme, resolving identified logistical challenges, and ensuring that delivery timelines and budgetary commitments are strictly adhered to.

“In a strategic move to enhance operational capacity, the meeting was aimed at fast-tracking the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z helicopters, aligned with the CAS’s philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with ground forces,” the statement said.

Air Marshal Aneke expressed appreciation to the United States Government and Bell Textron for their professionalism and transparency throughout the acquisition process, noting that the programme goes beyond the procurement of aircraft.

“This acquisition reflects the enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States and underscores our shared responsibility for regional and global security,” he said.

The Chief of the Air Staff assured that the Nigerian Air Force would take all necessary steps to ensure the helicopters are delivered in the shortest possible time, stressing the need for the programme management team to remain innovative, solutions-driven, and fully committed to meeting agreed timelines and operational standards.

He also acknowledged the unwavering support of President Bola Tinubu towards the Nigerian Air Force, crediting the President’s backing as critical to the service’s ongoing modernisation efforts.

The AH-1Z attack helicopters are expected to significantly boost the Nigerian Air Force’s combat capability, operational efficiency, and overall mission readiness.

Equipped with precision strike capabilities, the helicopters will allow for highly targeted operations, minimise collateral damage, and provide timely and effective close air support to ground forces, thereby saving lives and protecting property in conflict-affected communities.

Nigeria’s plan to acquire 12 AH-1Z helicopters, valued at 455 million dollars, was first approved by the United States Government in April 2022, when the Defence Security Cooperation Agency authorised a potential Foreign Military Sale.

Bell Textron was subsequently awarded the production and delivery contract on March 12, 2024.

The Programme Management Review meeting took place against the backdrop of an expanding security partnership between Nigeria and the United States.

On Christmas night, United States forces conducted airstrikes in Sokoto State targeting Islamic State-affiliated militants working with the Lakurawa jihadist group and local armed bandit networks.

Under the new arrangement, Nigeria is expected to assume leadership of subsequent counterterrorism air operations, while U.S. forces will primarily provide intelligence support, although additional strikes remain possible if required.

The airstrikes in Sokoto followed a diplomatic disagreement after President Donald Trump described alleged persecution and violence against Christians in Nigeria as “genocide”, a claim firmly rejected by the Nigerian government.

The dispute has since been resolved, leading to improved cooperation between both countries, with analysts observing an increase in United States reconnaissance flights over Nigeria as evidence of sustained commitment to shared security objectives.

The recent meeting and the decision to fast-track the AH-1Z helicopter acquisition underscore Nigeria’s strategic focus on strengthening airpower, countering insurgency, and securing the North-East and North-West regions.

These regions have witnessed persistent attacks for more than a decade by Boko Haram, Islamic State factions, and armed bandit groups targeting civilians, security personnel, and critical infrastructure.

Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s determination to eliminate terrorist and criminal threats with professionalism, accountability, and restraint, while sustaining public trust and confidence in its operations.

The acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters, he stated, represents a decisive step towards building a highly capable air force equipped to confront evolving security challenges and reinforce national and regional stability.