At the inaugural Nigerian Army Aviation Seminar in Abuja, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved the payment for the acquisition of 12 MD 530F Cayuse attack helicopters for the Nigerian Army.
These helicopters will bolster the Nigerian army aviation unit’s capabilities, enhancing ground troops’ agility, responsiveness, and overall operational success during missions.
Lagbaja emphasized the importance of an equipped aviation unit in supporting ground forces, drawing on the experiences of countries like the United States, Pakistan, Colombia, Egypt, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Uganda, which have demonstrated the effectiveness of army aviation arms in countering security threats and providing vital support to ground troops.
Since its revival in 2014, the Nigerian Army has made significant progress in training pilots, aircraft engineers, technicians, and ground support crew.
The COAS highlighted the army’s commitment to learning from international best practices while adapting them to Nigeria’s unique operational environment.
The seminar aims to address potential challenges the aviation unit may encounter and explore innovative solutions to strengthen its capabilities.
It serves as a platform for discussions on the future of Nigerian army aviation, including capacity building, infrastructure development, and the acquisition of advanced platforms and technologies.
Acting Coordinator of Nigerian Army Aviation, Brig.-Gen. Musa Alkali emphasized the unit’s pivotal role in enhancing ground operations and addressing current security challenges in Nigeria.
The re-establishment of army aviation is a crucial step in improving operational reach and effectiveness to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and national security. The seminar plays a significant role in advancing the operationalization of the aviation unit.