NAF Gets Five New Helicopters As Tinubu Deepens Military Modernisation Drive
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally inducted five additional helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force, reinforcing the Federal Government’s commitment to modernising the military and strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
The newly inducted aircraft comprise three Leonardo AW-109 Trekker B helicopters and two Airbus H-125 helicopters.
The ceremony took place on Thursday, October 29, 2026, with top government officials and military leaders in attendance.
The acquisition is expected to significantly expand the NAF’s rotary-wing capabilities, improve operational flexibility and enhance support for troops engaged in security operations across the country.
The three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters are designed to support critical military missions, including intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance, close air support, armed escort and combat search and rescue.
Similarly, the two Airbus H-125 helicopters will strengthen the Service’s capacity for light surveillance operations, tactical transportation and other essential assignments.
The Nigerian Air Force explained that the additional aircraft would improve mission readiness, enhance situational awareness and ensure more effective air support for ground forces operating in different theatres.
It added that the benefits of the new platforms would depend on sustained investment in maintenance infrastructure, logistics, technical capacity and continuous personnel training.
The development comes amid ongoing military efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges threatening the country.
Those present at the induction ceremony included the National Security Adviser, Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, ministers, lawmakers and other senior government and military officials.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has maintained that modern military platforms must be supported by mission-oriented training, effective maintenance and professional personnel development to achieve maximum operational results.
With the induction of the five helicopters, the NAF is expected to further strengthen its operational contribution to joint military efforts aimed at protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and restoring lasting peace and security.
