Tinubu Building More Modern, Combat-Ready Military — IMPI

The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) has reported that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is modernising the Nigerian military by acquiring combat helicopters and other platforms better suited for contemporary security challenges.

This effort aims to ensure more precise strikes on terrorist locations with minimal collateral damage, especially since such criminals often operate in densely populated areas of Northern Nigeria.

In a policy statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Omoniyi Akinsiju, the think tank outlined some of the military hardware that the administration has either paid for or acquired in the last 30 months.

IMPI stated: “For the record, Nigeria’s rise in firepower and military ranking from the fourth most powerful military on the African continent to third was achieved during the ongoing Tinubu administration.

“Over the past 32 months, we have observed a shift in the value orientation of the character, capacity, and equipment at the disposal of the three arms of the Nigerian military.

This underscores a precise and deliberate strategic maneuver to modernise the armed forces into a dynamic fighting force capable of both asymmetric and conventional military engagements.

“More impressively, we have noted that the military high command, under the President’s leadership, continues to recognise the gaps in the old structure and now directly addresses the inadequacies of the previous order to build a more innovative, technology-driven military.

“For instance, we see a new emphasis on air attack and precision capabilities, evident in the significant acquisition of assault and combat helicopters and related air-attack platforms.

“To structure an elite force that is not only well-equipped but also proficient in advanced tactics, unconventional warfare, intelligence-driven operations, and rapid response missions, Nigeria is on track to become the first African country to operate the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter, joining the United States, Bahrain, and the Czech Republic.

“To this end, the Nigerian Air Force has acquired 12 AH-1Z helicopters from the US to enhance its counter-terrorism capabilities. The AH-1Z Vipers are intended to significantly improve the Nigerian Air Force’s combat effectiveness, operational efficiency, and mission readiness.

“This move is a significant part of Nigeria’s defense modernization strategy to combat complex security threats. The helicopters are known for their advanced targeting systems, lethality, and battlefield agility.

“To enhance its capabilities further, Northrop Grumman was awarded a $7.7 million contract modification for the production and delivery of an additional 32 H-1 tech refresh mission computers in support of the AH-1Z aircraft for the government of Nigeria.

“The deal included 28 T-700 GE 401C engines, 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guidance sections, M197 20 mm guns, sighting systems, night vision equipment, and technical and logistics support.

“Nigeria’s total AH-1Z procurement was estimated by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) at $997 million and included helicopters, related equipment, spare parts, weapons, training, and support. Nigeria made the first installment payment for the AH-1Z Viper (Cobra) attack helicopters in August 2023.

“Although these attack helicopters were initially expected to start arriving around 2028 due to production queues and competing US export commitments, a high-level Program Management Review held in San Diego in June 2025—led by then-NAF Chief Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar and hosted by Bell Textron and US defense officials—specifically aimed at compressing that timeline.

“While neither side has confirmed a revised schedule, indications from the meeting suggest the possibility of first deliveries as early as 2026 or 2027.”

The think tank also highlighted the Army’s decision to establish its own aviation unit as a potential game changer in its efforts to build operational capabilities.

“Further to its counter-terrorism efforts, the Nigerian Army has established its aviation corps, intending to enhance its effectiveness against terrorist groups in the Northeast.

“The service has attributed the prolonged battle against terrorist groups to a lack of air power. It has been proposed that its own aviation corps would be crucial to the Army’s surveillance, reconnaissance, and patrol operations, significantly boosting the nation’s defense capabilities.

“This initiative was further strengthened by the announcement of a $3.2 million investment to construct the first Army aviation hangar at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, Niger State. Funded by the Pan-African Business Forum as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, this project is expected to mark a new era in the Nigerian Army’s operational readiness.

“The new hangar is anticipated to house an impressive fleet of aerial assets, including 12 MD530 Cayuse Warrior series attack helicopters, 10 Bayraktar TB2 uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), and 8 Magnus light attack aircraft.

“Since 2023, the Commander-in-Chief, President Tinubu, has approved payment for the procurement of 12 MD 530F Cayuse attack helicopters in September.

“The Cayuse Warrior is a proven tactical scout and light attack aircraft, built from the MD 530F design, and is valued for its unmatched power, safety, speed, agility, and unparalleled confined-area capabilities.

“The ‘Plus’ version features mission enhancements, including upgrades to the weapons system, avionics improvements, armor, and increased power performance.

The Nigerian selection consists of a complete Instrument Landing System package, spares, pilot and maintainer training, and a simulator. The total value of procurement is estimated to be about $1.1 billion.

“Together with previously approved munitions, including 2,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) rockets, these two helicopter fleets represent one of the most substantial US–Nigeria defense collaborations since the A-29 Super Tucano,” it added.