Terrorism: NAF Holds Strategic Talks With U.S. Government Bell Textron To Expedite Delivery Of Attack Helicopters

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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has stepped up efforts to speed up the delivery of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, following high-level discussions between senior NAF officials, top United States Government representatives, and executives from Bell Textron.

According to Gossip News Now, the meeting was part of a Programme Management Review session held from January 5 to 6, 2026, in San Diego, California. The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, led the Nigerian delegation.

In a statement released on Thursday, January 8, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the objective of the meeting was to assess the progress of the acquisition project and outline fresh strategies to guarantee the aircraft are delivered within the agreed schedule.

Ejodame noted that Air Marshal Aneke emphasized that the review was critical for maintaining oversight, ensuring accountability, and upholding strict timelines and financial discipline.

The statement added:
“In a bid to boost the Nigerian Air Force’s operational capabilities, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, met with senior U.S. officials and Bell Textron representatives in San Diego from 5 to 6 January 2026. The discussions centred on accelerating the delivery of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, which form a key component of the CAS’s mission to build a motivated, professional, and combat-ready air force capable of delivering decisive airpower in coordination with ground forces.”

Aneke expressed appreciation to the U.S. Government and Bell Textron for their professionalism, cooperation, and transparent handling of the ongoing programme. He reaffirmed NAF’s commitment to timely execution of the project.

“We value the openness and dedication shown throughout this process, and we remain fully committed to working closely with our partners to ensure the timely and successful delivery of these platforms,” Aneke said.

He stressed that the AH-1Z acquisition is not just an equipment upgrade, but a strong indication of the enduring security partnership between Nigeria and the United States. He described the programme as a joint effort built on shared values and a common commitment to regional and global stability.

“This collaboration highlights our unified resolve to tackle evolving security threats through partnership and continuous capability development,” he added.

Reiterating the urgency of the initiative, the CAS assured U.S. officials that every necessary action would be taken to fast-track the delivery timeline. He directed the programme management team to ensure that the production schedule is followed strictly and within budget.

“Deadlines and quality standards must go hand-in-hand. We must stay focused, think creatively, and remain proactive,” he said.

Acknowledging Tinubu’s Support

Aneke also extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his consistent support of the Nigerian Air Force. He said the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters would greatly improve NAF’s combat strength, operational precision, and readiness levels—enhancing its ability to respond effectively to security challenges across the country.

He noted that the advanced features of the AH-1Z would allow for more accurate strikes, reduced collateral damage, and improved support to ground troops, ultimately helping protect civilians and restore safety in areas affected by terrorism and violent crime.

Aneke reassured the public of the Air Force’s resolve to combat security threats professionally, ethically, and with accountability, while maintaining public confidence.

Gossip News Now earlier reported that the U.S. Government approved Nigeria’s request to purchase 12 AH-1Z helicopters in April 2022, following a clearance by the U.S. State Department via the Defence Security Cooperation Agency.

As reported by Military Africa, the U.S. Department of Defence awarded Bell Textron the $455 million production and delivery contract for the helicopters on March 12, 2024.