By Our Correspondent
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced on Thursday that Nigeria is set to receive four attack helicopters ordered from the United States as part of ongoing efforts to tackle insurgency, banditry, and insecurity across the country.
The announcement was made during a meeting with a delegation from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at the President’s Lagos residence.
The President said the helicopters are part of Nigeria’s broader AH-1Z Viper procurement program, which began after the U.S. approved the sale of 12 Bell AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters in April 2022.
“The total deal valued at approximately $997 million, includes weapons, training, spares, and support, with a $455 million contract awarded to Bell Textron in March 2024 for production and delivery. Nigeria made its first payment in August 2023, and subsequent progress reviews including a key meeting in San Diego in June 2025 have aimed to accelerate the delivery schedule, initially expected to be completed between 2027 and 2028”, he said.
President Tinubu acknowledged delays in military procurements, emphasizing that such sophisticated equipment is expensive and not readily available “off the shelf.”
He also noted that Nigeria has approached Turkey for additional support to bridge security gaps while awaiting the U.S. helicopters.
The AH-1Z Viper is a twin-engine attack helicopter designed for counterinsurgency operations, featuring advanced avionics, a 20mm cannon, and the ability to carry rockets and guided missiles, including APKWS systems intended for Nigeria.
If the four helicopters represent early deliveries from the 12-unit order, it would mark a significant step in modernizing the Nigerian Air Force.
Currently, no official confirmation from the U.S. Department of Defense or Bell Textron has been released regarding the exact delivery dates.
Nonetheless, President Tinubu’s announcement signals a tangible move toward strengthening Nigeria’s air power and enhancing its counterterrorism capabilities.
