By Gabriel Ameh
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has disclosed that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is accelerating the acquisition of more than 46 advanced fighter aircraft, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to strengthen Nigeria’s air combat capability.
He said the platforms are aimed at enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria across the full spectrum of air operations.
Speaking at the inauguration of key infrastructural projects at NAF Base Kaduna, the CAS explained that the procurement forms part of an ongoing transformation drive within the Service.
According to him, the platforms being acquired include 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack Aircraft, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters. He added that strategic defence engagements with partners in the United States, Italy and Türkiye are already yielding positive outcomes.
Air Marshal Aneke noted that alongside fleet expansion, the NAF is investing heavily in personnel training to prepare pilots and ground crew for the operation of the incoming modern aircraft. He described the effort as critical to building a new generation of aviators capable of projecting decisive air power in support of national security objectives.
In a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for sustained support to the military.
He particularly referenced bilateral engagements with the Government of the Republic of Türkiye, which he said facilitated the acquisition of advanced helicopters and UAVs.
The CAS said the completion of the Student Pilots’ Quarters at NAF Base Kaduna represents a significant milestone in strengthening training capacity. He emphasised that the initiative aligns with his command philosophy of sustaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in synergy with surface forces.
Projects inaugurated include six blocks of 12 one-bedroom Student Pilots’ Quarters, a block of six three-bedroom flats initiated by the Ministry of Defence and completed by the NAF, and a 30-unit one-bedroom studio apartment complex for personnel of the Military Training Centre.
Air Marshal Aneke urged personnel to uphold discipline and professionalism, while commending former CAS, Air Marshal H.B. Abubakar, for initiating the project. He also acknowledged the federal government and the National Assembly for enabling the fiscal releases that supported the developments.
Reaffirming the NAF’s commitment to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, he pledged continued collaboration with other services to ensure a safe and secure Nigeria.
CDS Charges Troops on Discipline, Integrity
Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has charged troops of Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe, to discharge their duties with the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.
The CDS gave the charge during the inauguration of newly constructed accommodation for Non-Commissioned Officers and a remodelled conference hall at the Headquarters of Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe in Igbogene, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
He warned against any form of illegality or compromise in the execution of duties, stressing that the protection of oil and gas infrastructure remains critical to Nigeria’s economic stability.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the CDS reaffirmed his commitment to improving welfare packages and working conditions for personnel of the Armed Forces.
He commended the Commander of the Joint Task Force, Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, for delivering projects that prioritise troop welfare.
The newly inaugurated Non-Commissioned Officers’ accommodation comprises 24 apartments equipped with solar power, water facilities and cooling systems to enhance comfort and morale.
General Oluyede reiterated that Operation Delta Safe remains focused on protecting oil and gas assets, deterring militancy, combating sea robbery and safeguarding lives and property across the Niger Delta region.
