The Federal Government has concluded plans with a United States-based defence company for the delivery of 12 attack helicopters to strengthen Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations and enhance national security.

The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja while briefing State House correspondents after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.

Badaru said the acquisition formed part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to modernise the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and improve operational capacity in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crimes across the country.

According to him, the helicopters, which are expected to be delivered in batches, will significantly boost air support for ground troops, particularly in difficult terrains where insurgents operate.

“The Federal Government, in collaboration with a reputable defence company in the United States, has concluded arrangements for the delivery of 12 attack helicopters to Nigeria.

“These platforms will enhance air superiority, improve intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and provide close air support to our troops engaged in counter-insurgency operations,” the minister said.

Badaru noted that the procurement process complied with all relevant regulations and international best practices, adding that Nigerian pilots and technicians would undergo specialised training to ensure effective deployment and maintenance of the aircraft.

He explained that the helicopters would be deployed strategically across operational theatres in the North-East, North-West and other flashpoints, based on security assessments by the military high command.

The minister further said President Tinubu had reiterated his commitment to equipping the armed forces with modern hardware and ensuring the welfare of personnel, as part of efforts to restore peace and stability nationwide.

He added that the government was also strengthening collaboration with international partners to tackle cross-border security challenges and disrupt the supply chains of insurgent groups.

Nigeria has, in recent years, invested heavily in military hardware, including fighter jets, armoured vehicles and naval assets, to confront insurgency led by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), as well as rising banditry and other security threats in parts of the country.

Security experts believe that enhanced air power remains critical to degrading insurgents’ operational capabilities and protecting civilian populations in affected communities.