Tinubu Announces Imminent Arrival of U.S.-Supplied Attack Helicopters Amid Security Challenges
President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that four attack helicopters procured from the United States are expected to be delivered to Nigeria in the near future, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to confront rising insecurity and insurgent activities across the country.
The President made the revelation on Friday while hosting a delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, at his Lagos residence. According to Tinubu, the acquisition of the helicopters forms part of broader measures to strengthen Nigeria’s military capacity in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism. Nigeria’s security situation has drawn increasing international attention in recent months, prompting deeper cooperation with foreign partners, particularly the United States. This collaboration came into focus on Thursday when former U.S. President Donald Trump announced via his Truth Social platform that American forces had carried out airstrikes on terrorist targets in North-West Nigeria. Trump stated that the operation, which he authorised in his role as Commander-in-Chief, was aimed at militants linked to ISIS whom he accused of carrying out deadly attacks, especially against Christian communities. He claimed that several terrorists were neutralised during the strikes. Following the announcement, the Nigerian government confirmed the operation, describing it as a joint effort between Nigerian and U.S. security forces. In a statement issued on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Nigeria continues to work closely with international allies to combat terrorism. The ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, explained that sustained security cooperation with partners such as the United States has resulted in targeted aerial operations against terrorist strongholds in the North-West region. Speaking further on military support, President Tinubu noted that while the ordered U.S.-made attack helicopters are expected to arrive soon, the government is also exploring additional options. He revealed that Nigeria has reached out to Turkey for further assistance to bolster its security architecture while awaiting delivery of the aircraft. The Federal Government has maintained that strengthening defence partnerships and upgrading military hardware remain critical to restoring peace and stability across the country.
