The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, led a Programme Management Review meeting with senior U.S. government officials and representatives from Bell Textron from January 5–6, 2026, in San Diego, California, aimed at accelerating the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF Director of Public Relations, the helicopter procurement is a key component of the CAS’s strategy to build a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready air force capable of delivering decisive airpower in coordination with ground forces to achieve national security objectives.

During the engagement, Air Marshal Aneke expressed gratitude to the U.S. government and Bell Textron for their cooperation, professionalism, and transparency, noting that the structured review process reflects the NAF’s focus on programme discipline, accountability, and results.

“We deeply value the professionalism and openness demonstrated throughout this process and remain fully committed to working closely with our partners to ensure the timely and successful delivery of these platforms,” the CAS said.

Air Marshal Aneke described the acquisition as more than a simple platform upgrade, framing it as a symbol of enduring defense cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, emphasizing a shared responsibility for regional and global security based on trust, shared values, and a common vision for peace.

He also reiterated the NAF’s urgency and commitment, instructing the programme management team to ensure production stays on schedule and within budget, with a focus on innovation and solution-driven execution.

“Timelines and standards must be met concurrently. We must remain focused, innovative, and solutions-driven,” he stressed.