By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reactivated a Super Puma helicopter, NAF 565, to strengthen airpower projection and enhance operational readiness across the country.
This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Wednesday in Abuja.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, inaugurated the aircraft on Tuesday at 205 Rotary Wing, Ikeja, Lagos, describing the development as a significant boost to the Service’s combat and support capabilities.
Aneke said the return of the Super Puma underscored the NAF’s commitment to sustaining a highly professional and mission-ready force through the restoration of critical legacy platforms.
“This occasion is not merely about the return of an aircraft to our fleet, but a demonstration of our resolve to enhance and sustain decisive airpower in defence of the nation,” he said.
The CAS expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda had continued to yield tangible gains for the Air Force through strategic acquisitions and asset recovery.
He described the Super Puma as one of the most versatile rotary-wing platforms in the NAF inventory, with roles spanning troop transport, casualty evacuation, search and rescue, logistics support and maritime security.
According to him, the helicopter has proved its value in Operation Hadin Kai and other joint operations, adding that its reactivation would further strengthen counter-insurgency, anti-banditry and maritime security operations, particularly within the Lagos axis.
Aneke commended the consultant on the project, retired Air Commodore T.A. Badru, as well as the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command and technicians of 205 Rotary Wing, for their professionalism and dedication.
He charged personnel responsible for operating and maintaining the aircraft to uphold strict safety and maintenance standards, stressing that discipline and accountability were central to mission readiness.
The CAS reviewed gains recorded in his first 100 days in office, linking improved aircraft serviceability to stronger coordination between logistics and operations.
He also disclosed that the NAF was fast-tracking the induction of advanced combat platforms to enhance precision strike capability and deterrence.
Aneke reaffirmed that personnel welfare remained critical to operational effectiveness, pledging to accelerate the completion of ongoing accommodation projects and improve allowances, medical support and working conditions.
He urged NAF personnel to remain disciplined, innovative and mission-focused as operations intensify nationwide, assuring that the Air Force would continue to justify the confidence of the government and Nigerians. (NAN)
