Tinubu Inducts Five New Helicopters into Nigerian Air Force to Boost Security Operations
Tinubu Inducts Five New Helicopters into Nigerian Air Force to Boost Security Operations
Tinubu Inducts Five New Helicopters into Nigerian Air Force to Boost Security Operations
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, October 29, 2026, inducted five new helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as part of efforts to modernise the military’s airpower capabilities and strengthen national security.
The newly inducted aircraft comprise three Leonardo AW-109 Trekker B helicopters and two Airbus H-125 helicopters. Their addition is expected to expand the Air Force’s helicopter fleet, improve operational availability and provide greater flexibility in supporting military operations across the country.
The three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters will strengthen the NAF’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 troops.
The two Airbus H-125 helicopters will provide light-helicopter support for surveillance, tactical mobility and other operational requirements.
The Air Force said the new platforms would improve situational awareness, enhance responsiveness and strengthen air support for troops operating across different theatres of operation.
Beyond the acquisition of aircraft, the induction highlights the importance of sustained investment in maintenance, logistics, technical expertise and personnel training to ensure the platforms deliver maximum operational value.
The NAF is expected to deploy the helicopters in support of ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.
The ceremony was attended by the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Defence Staff, other Service Chiefs, ministers, members of the National Assembly and senior government and military officials.
The induction marks another step in the modernisation of the Nigerian Air Force and efforts to build a more capable, responsive and technologically advanced service.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has emphasised the need to translate investments in modern aircraft into improved 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.
Tinubu Inducts Five New Helicopters into Nigerian Air Force to Boost Security Operations
