President Bola Tinubu on Thursday inducted five new helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), in a move aimed at boosting the service’s operational capabilities and strengthening the fight against terrorism and other security threats.
The newly inducted aircraft comprise three Leonardo AW-109 Trekker B helicopters and two Airbus H-125 helicopters. The induction marks another milestone in the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise Nigeria’s airpower and enhance national security.
According to a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, the additional platforms will expand the NAF’s rotary-wing fleet, improve asset availability and provide greater flexibility in supporting military operations across the country.
The three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters are expected to strengthen the Air Force’s capabilities in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), close air support, armed escort, combat search and rescue, and other joint operations in support of ground forces. The two H-125 helicopters will offer versatile light-helicopter support for surveillance, tactical mobility and other operational needs.
Collectively, the platforms are intended to enhance situational awareness, improve responsiveness and strengthen air support to troops operating across multiple theatres.
The statement noted that beyond expanding the fleet, the induction highlights the importance of sustained investment in maintenance, logistics, technical expertise and personnel training to maximise the operational value of modern aircraft. The NAF remains focused on translating these investments into improved mission effectiveness, greater operational readiness and more responsive support to joint military operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
The ceremony was attended by the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Defence Staff, other Service Chiefs, ministers, members of the National Assembly and other senior government and military officials.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has consistently emphasised the need to convert investments in modern platforms into enhanced operational effectiveness through mission-focused training, effective maintenance and the professional development of personnel.
Through the effective deployment of the new helicopters, the NAF aims to strengthen its contribution to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting ongoing operations to restore peace and security nationwide.