A group, The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) has said that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is modernizing the Nigerian military by acquiring combat helicopters and other platforms best suited for contemporary security challenges.
This is with a view to ensuring more precision strikes on terrorists locations without a few of collateral damage especially as the criminals also operate from areas with sizeable population in Northern Nigeria.
In a policy statement signed by its Chairman Dr Omoniyi Akinsiju, the think tank itemized some of the military hardware the administration has either paid for or acquired in the last 30 months.
IMPI said: “For the record, the rise in Nigeria’s firepower and military ranking from the fourth most powerful military on the African continent to third was accomplished during the ongoing Tinubu administration.
”Over the past 32 months, we have observed a shift in the value orientation of the character, capacity, and equipment stock at the disposal of the three arms of the Nigerian military. This underscores a precise, deliberate strategic manoeuvre to modernise the armed forces into a dynamic fighting force for both asymmetric and conventional military engagements.
”More impressively, we have observed that the military high command, under the leadership of the President, continues to recognise the gaps in the old structure and now directly addresses the inadequacies inherent in the old order to build a more innovative, technology-driven military.
”For instance, we observe a new emphasis on air attack and precision capabilities. This is evident in the feverish acquisition of assault and combat helicopters and related air-attack platforms.
”With the stated aim of structuring an elite force that is not only well-equipped but also proficient in advanced tactics, unconventional warfare, intelligence-driven operations, and rapid response missions, Nigeria is now on track to become the first African country to operate the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter, joining the United States, Bahrain, and the Czech Republic.
”To this end, the Nigerian Air Force has acquired 12 AH-1Z helicopters from the US to enhance its counter-terrorism capabilities. The AH-1Z Vipers are intended to significantly improve the Nigerian Air Force’s combat effectiveness, operational efficiency, and mission readiness.
”The move is a significant part of Nigeria’s defence modernisation strategy to combat complex security threats. The helicopters are known for their advanced targeting, lethality and battlefield agility.
”To enhance its lethality, Northrop Grumman was awarded a $7.7 million contract modification “for the production and delivery of an additional 32 H-1 tech refresh mission computers in support of the AH-1Z aircraft for the government of Nigeria”.
”The deal included 28 T-700 GE 401C engines, 2000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guidance sections, M197 20 mm guns, sighting systems, and night vision equipment, technical and logistics support.
”Nigeria’s total AH-1Z procurement was estimated by the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) at $997 million and included helicopters, related equipment, spares, weapons, training, and support. Nigeria made the first instalment payment for the AH-1Z Viper (Cobra) attack helicopters in August 2023.
”The attack helicopters were initially expected to begin arriving around 2028 due to production queues and competing US export commitments. However, a high-level Programme Management Review held in San Diego in June 2025, led by then NAF Chief Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar and hosted by Bell Textron and US defence officials, was expressly aimed at compressing that timeline.
”While neither side has confirmed a revised schedule, indications from the meeting suggest the possibility of first deliveries as early as 2026 or 2027. ”
The think tank also pointed at the Army’s decision to establish its own aviation unit as a potential game changer in its bid to build its operational capabilities.
”Further to its counter-terrorism efforts, the Nigerian Army has established its aviation corps. The objective is to enhance its effectiveness against terrorist groups in the North East.
”The service had attributed the prolonged battle against terrorist groups to a lack of air power. It had proposed that its own aviation corps would be crucial to the Army’s surveillance, reconnaissance, and patrol operations, providing a significant boost to the nation’s defence capabilities.
”The move was further strengthened by the announcement of a $3.2 million investment to construct the first Army aviation hangar at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, Niger State. The Pan-African Business Forum funds the project as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility and it expectedly marks a new era in the Nigerian Army’s operational readiness.
”The new hangar is expected to house an impressive fleet of aerial assets, including 12 MD530 Cayuse Warrior series attack helicopters, 10 Bayrakter TB2 uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), and 8 Magnus light attack aircraft.
”The Commander-in-Chief, President Tinubu, has since 2023 approved payment for the procurement of 12 MD 530F Cayuse attack helicopters in September.
”The Cayuse Warrior is a proven tactical scout and light attack aircraft, built from the MD 530F design, and valued for its unmatched power, safety, speed, agility, and unparalleled confined-area capabilities.
”The ‘Plus’ version features mission enhancements that include the weapons system, avionics improvements, armour, and increased power performance. The Nigerian selection consists of a complete Instrument Landing System package, spares, pilot and maintainer training, and a simulator. The total value of procurement is about $1.1billion.
”Taken together with previously approved munitions, including 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) rockets, these two helicopter fleets represent one of the most substantial US–Nigeria defence collaborations since the A-29 Super Tucano, it added.
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