The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken delivery of five additional helicopters as part of efforts to strengthen its operational capacity and improve support for troops engaged in security operations across the country.
The NAF said the new aircraft would enhance its ability to conduct air operations, provide support to ground forces and respond more effectively to emerging security threats.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the latest additions comprise three AW109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters of Italy and two H125 helicopters produced by Airbus Helicopters.
Ejodame said the three AW109 Trekker B helicopters arrived in Lagos on September 15, 2026. They are part of 10 helicopters recently acquired by the Federal Government, with the remaining seven expected to be delivered before the end of 2026.
The two H125 helicopters had been delivered earlier, bringing the number of newly delivered platforms covered by the latest announcement to five.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the acquisition as another milestone in the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to modernise and re-equip the Nigerian Air Force.
He said the additional helicopters would increase aircraft availability and improve the service’s ability to respond to operational demands across different theatres.
“The arrival of these five helicopters provides greater flexibility in the employment of airpower in support of ground troops in ongoing operations,” Aneke said.
The Chief of the Air Staff also commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as sustained support for the transformation and modernisation of the Nigerian Air Force.
“On behalf of the officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force, I express our profound appreciation to Mr President for his sustained support for the transformation and modernisation of the Service,” he said.
Aneke added that the Federal Government’s investment was helping the NAF progressively develop the capabilities required to carry out its operational responsibilities and address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
