The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it is expediting the procurement process for 12 new AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from Messrs Bell Textron, a United States manufacturer, to ensure their delivery in the shortest possible time and enhance air interdiction against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements across Nigeria.

The Service also said it remains fully committed to the effective and responsible deployment of all acquired air assets in the ongoing fight against terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements threatening the peace and stability of the nation.

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, made this disclosure when he led a high-level delegation to the United States for a Programme Management Review Meeting on the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement on Sunday stated that the strategic meeting, which held from 9–13 June 2025 in San Diego, California, brought together top officials from the United States Government and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron, manufacturers of the AH-1Z helicopters.

The Air Chief said, “The acquisition of the AH-1Z Viper helicopters will significantly enhance the Nigerian Air Force’s combat effectiveness, operational efficiency, and mission readiness. We are fully committed to ensuring these platforms are delivered in the shortest possible time. Every necessary step will be taken to facilitate a seamless procurement and integration process. Our goal is to create enduring peace while protecting innocent lives and property in line with internationally accepted rules of engagement.”

Abubakar also expressed deep appreciation to the US Government for its enduring strategic partnership, saying, “We are deeply grateful to the United States Government for its enduring strategic partnership with Nigeria.”

Ejodame said that following the programme review meeting, the CAS proceeded to Camp Pendleton, California, where he visited the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 (HMLA-367) and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 39 (MALS-39), both under the Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 39.

These squadrons, he said, are actively engaged in the operation and maintenance of the AH-1Z helicopter.

During the visit, the CAS had the opportunity to inspect the helicopters firsthand and engage with senior officers of the United States Marine Corps on best practices for the operation, sustainment, and logistics support of the AH-1Z platform.

“This visit has provided a unique opportunity to understand best practices for the operation, sustainment, and logistical support of the AH-1Z platform from the United States Marine Corps,” he stressed.

He stated that the progress made in the AH-1Z acquisition project is a direct reflection of President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

Linus Aleke

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