The Chief of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao, is in the United States to oversee discussions related to the acquisition of attack helicopters, according to an official statement from the Nigerian Air Force. The visit, confirmed on Monday, January 6, 2026, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s air defense capabilities and modernize its military hardware.
The statement emphasized that the procurement discussions are aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency and readiness of the Nigerian Air Force. “The Chief of the Air Staff is in the United States to engage with partners and suppliers on the acquisition of attack helicopters necessary for the protection of Nigeria’s airspace,” the release stated.
This initiative is part of broader efforts by the Nigerian military to modernize its equipment and improve national security, particularly in regions affected by insurgency, banditry, and other security threats. The Air Force aims to integrate advanced technology to bolster its response capabilities in the ongoing fight against various security challenges.
Officials noted that the talks include negotiations on technical specifications, delivery timelines, training of personnel, and maintenance agreements, ensuring that the acquisition aligns with operational and strategic needs.
Experts have observed that enhancing air combat and surveillance capacity is critical for Nigeria’s efforts to address security threats in the northern and central regions, where banditry and armed attacks have posed significant challenges to law enforcement and civilian safety.
The Nigerian Air Force has maintained that these procurement plans are conducted transparently, with due adherence to government procurement policies and oversight mechanisms. The visit underscores the importance of international cooperation in defense and the commitment of Nigerian authorities to equipping the military with modern and effective tools.
Air Marshal Amao is expected to meet with several US defense officials and industry representatives before returning to Nigeria with a clearer roadmap for the acquisition of the helicopters. The initiative represents a step toward strengthening national defense infrastructure and operational capacity in response to evolving security needs.
The Air Force has reiterated that the program is intended to improve national security and ensure the safety of citizens while reinforcing Nigeria’s ability to respond effectively to emerging threats.
