Nigerian Army Launches Aviation Wing with New Fighter Helicopters

 The Federal Government has established an aviation wing for the Nigerian Army and acquired fighter helicopters to bolster its operations.

According to Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, the BELL UH-1H HUEY helicopters were received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Friday. He emphasized that the creation of the Nigerian Army Aviation Wing would enhance operational effectiveness.

Nwachukwu stated that the BELL UH-1H helicopters are equipped with advanced sensors and capabilities, enabling them to perform a variety of missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, rescue, logistics, transportation, and medical evacuation.

The statement reads: “The Nigerian Army has made a significant step in boosting its operational capabilities with the arrival of the first batch of new aircraft. This marks a milestone in the development of the Nigerian Army Aviation’s ability to provide air support for ground operations.

"The BELL UH-1H HUEY helicopters were formally received by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, in a brief ceremony at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday, June 20, 2024.

"General Lagbaja noted that the initiative to establish an Army Aviation wing was conceived by then-Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah (retired) in 2014, with a three-phase ten-year implementation plan.

"He praised former Chiefs of Army Staff for their tenacity and drive, along with the collective efforts of personnel and the Nigerian Government’s political will, which have been instrumental in realizing the establishment of Army Aviation.

"General Lagbaja thanked successive administrations for their support in training Army pilots and ground crews and setting up necessary structures. He also acknowledged the assistance and encouragement from sister services and the Nigerian Police Force Aviation wing, which have been vital in this achievement. The acquisition of these new platforms will enable the Nigerian Army to better serve the nation and provide an environment conducive to economic prosperity.”

At the event, Brigadier General Musa Alkali, the Coordinator of Nigerian Army Aviation, remarked that the arrival of the new aviation platforms is a significant milestone in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Army Aviation, aligning with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy.