By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has marked a major boost to its operational capability with the commissioning of a reactivated Super Puma helicopter, NAF 565, at 205 Rotary Wing, Ikeja, Lagos.
The ceremony, held on February 4, 2026, was presided over by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who described the aircraft’s return to service as a symbol of renewed strength and institutional commitment to national defence.
“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,” Aneke said.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustained support toward airpower development, noting that the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding tangible gains through strategic acquisitions and restoration of critical platforms.
Aneke said the Super Puma’s reactivation reflects deliberate efforts to keep the Air Force prepared to meet its constitutional responsibilities and maintain operational superiority across theatres of operation.
Describing the helicopter as one of the most versatile assets in the NAF inventory, the CAS highlighted its vital roles in 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, adding that the platform has played key roles in Operation Hadin Kai and other joint missions.
He noted that its return will strengthen maritime security operations in Lagos and further enhance counterinsurgency and anti-banditry campaigns nationwide.
The CAS commended the consultant, retired Air Commodore T.A. Badru, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, and technicians of 205 Rotary Wing for their professionalism in restoring the aircraft.
He urged personnel responsible for operating and maintaining the platform to uphold strict safety and maintenance standards, stressing that mission readiness depends on discipline and accountability.
Aneke also acknowledged the financial backing of the National Assembly, describing inter-agency cooperation as essential for sustaining operational momentum.
During a durbar with officers, airmen, and airwomen at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, the CAS reviewed achievements recorded in his first 100 days in office, citing improved aircraft serviceability and enhanced synchronization between logistics and operations.
He revealed that the NAF is accelerating the induction of advanced combat platforms to provide precision strike capability and strengthen regional deterrence.
“These state-of-the-art platforms will provide us with unprecedented precision strike capabilities and regional deterrence,” he assured.
The CAS further reaffirmed that personnel welfare remains central to operational effectiveness, pledging to fast-track ongoing accommodation projects and improve allowances, medical services, and working conditions under the guiding principle of “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare.”
He concluded by urging personnel to remain disciplined, innovative, and mission-focused as operations intensify nationwide, assuring Nigerians that the Air Force will continue to justify the confidence of the government and the people.
