Super Puma Back in the Air: NAF Strengthens National Security Operations

By Love Oyedokun

IKEJA, LAGOS – The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) marked a significant achievement in its ongoing efforts to enhance national security with the commissioning of the reactivated Super Puma helicopter (NAF 565) at 205 Rotary Wing, Ikeja, Lagos, on February 4, 2026. The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, presided over the ceremony, reaffirming the Service’s unwavering resolve to sustain decisive airpower in defense of the nation.

Cablenews24 reports that addressing the assembled personnel, Air Marshal Aneke hailed the event as a powerful symbol of renewed capability and institutional focus. “This occasion is not merely about the return of an aircraft to our fleet, but a demonstration of our unwavering commitment to enhance and sustain a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force,” he stated. He emphasized that the restoration of legacy platforms remains a central pillar in the NAF’s strategy to strengthen national security and effectively address evolving threats.

The CAS expressed profound appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his steadfast support toward airpower development. He highlighted that the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda continues to translate into tangible capability gains for the NAF through strategic acquisitions and the restoration of critical assets.

“The support we have received from President Tinubu and the Federal Government has been instrumental in enabling us to enhance our operational capabilities and effectively carry out our constitutional responsibilities,” Air Marshal Aneke stated. “The return of the Super Puma is a direct result of this support and reflects our deliberate efforts to ensure the Air Force remains fully prepared to maintain operational superiority across multiple theatres.”

Highlighting the aircraft’s operational value, the CAS described the Super Puma as one of the most versatile rotary-wing platforms in the NAF inventory. He emphasized its critical role in a wide range of operations, including troop transport, casualty evacuation, search and rescue, and logistics support.

“The Super Puma is a workhorse whose role is second to none in the Nigerian Air Force,” he said. “It has proven its worth in Operation Hadin Kai and other joint missions, and its return will significantly enhance maritime security operations in Lagos while reinforcing counterinsurgency and anti-banditry efforts nationwide.”

The reactivated Super Puma will provide a much-needed boost to the NAF’s operational capabilities, particularly in the face of increasing security challenges across the country. Its versatility and reliability make it an invaluable asset in addressing a wide range of threats, from insurgency and banditry to maritime piracy and illegal oil bunkering.

Commending the teams behind the reactivation, the CAS praised the consultant, retired Air Commodore TA Badru, alongside the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command and technicians of 205 Rotary Wing for their professionalism and resilience. He urged personnel responsible for operating and maintaining the aircraft to uphold strict safety and maintenance standards.

“Let it reflect our strong culture of airmanship, maintenance, and pride,” he charged, emphasizing that mission readiness depends on discipline and accountability. He also acknowledged the fiscal support enabled by the National Assembly, describing inter-institutional cooperation as vital to sustaining operational momentum.

During a durbar with officers, airmen, and airwomen of collocated units at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, the CAS reflected on his first 100 days in office and outlined measurable gains in operational tempo. He linked improved aircraft serviceability to tighter synchronization between logistics and operations, while revealing that the NAF is fast-tracking the induction of advanced combat platforms.

“These state-of-the-art platforms will provide us with unprecedented precision strike capabilities and regional deterrence,” he assured personnel, adding that sustained modernization remains a priority. The NAF’s commitment to acquiring advanced combat platforms underscores its determination to maintain a technological edge and effectively address emerging security threats.

The CAS reiterated that personnel welfare remains inseparable from operational effectiveness. While acknowledging that several accommodation projects were initiated by his predecessor, he pledged to accelerate their completion to address housing deficits affecting personnel. Guided by the principle of “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare,” he assured airmen of continued improvements in allowances, medical support, and working conditions.

“We recognize that our personnel are our most valuable asset, and we are committed to providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed,” Air Marshal Aneke stated. “By prioritizing personnel welfare, we are creating a more motivated, professional, and effective fighting force.”Tthe CAS urged personnel to remain disciplined, innovative, and mission-focused as operations intensify nationwide, reaffirming that the Nigerian Air Force will continue to justify the confidence of the Government and people of Nigeria. The NAF’s commitment to operational readiness, technological advancement, and personnel welfare demonstrates its unwavering dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s national security and protecting its citizens.

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