Nigeria: Nigeria to Buy 12 US Attack Helicopters

What the report says

Nigeria is moving forward with plans to buy 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States, according to Premium Times reporting distributed by AllAfrica. The deal comes as Abuja and Washington expand defence cooperation while Nigeria continues to face insecurity from armed groups and terrorists in several parts of the country.

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria said the planned acquisition reflects a stronger security partnership between the two countries. The mission said the purchase would support efforts to build Nigeria’s defence capabilities and respond to current and emerging threats. It also pointed to broader military cooperation, including training, intelligence sharing and counterterrorism support.

The report said the development followed a signing ceremony at Bell Textron’s facility in Amarillo, Texas, where the Nigerian Air Force chief, Sunday Aneke, led a delegation. The visit was described as an important step in Nigeria’s defence cooperation programme and in its efforts to modernize the armed forces. The delegation also inspected the helicopter production line.

Background cited in the report includes recent U.S. military equipment deliveries to Nigeria, the creation of defence working groups under a 2026 cooperation roadmap, and earlier U.S. support for counterterrorism operations. The partnership has continued despite diplomatic tensions over U.S. concerns about religious freedom and ongoing travel warnings for Nigeria.