Hope Ajayi 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has completed the local reassembly of its first two H125 helicopters at NAF Base Ikeja, Lagos, in a development the service said would strengthen technical capacity and maintenance capabilities.
The NAF disclosed this in a statement posted on Monday, saying the helicopters were delivered by Airbus Helicopters and reassembled with the support of Airbus technical personnel.
The service said the exercise would strengthen technical collaboration between the NAF and Airbus while facilitating knowledge transfer and giving personnel practical experience in supporting and maintaining modern rotary-wing aircraft.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the development as a step towards strengthening the technical and operational capacity of the service. “Beyond acquiring modern platforms, we are committed to developing the knowledge, partnerships and support systems required to maximise their operational value and sustain them throughout their service life,” Aneke said.
The NAF said the H125 helicopters would provide additional capability for ongoing air operations, including surveillance, tactical mobility and other operational support missions.
The service said the local reassembly also provided an opportunity to deepen the technical expertise of NAF personnel and improve their familiarity with the platforms.
The NAF appreciated the support and strategic direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the administration’s focus on national security capabilities had supported fleet modernisation and operational effectiveness.
The service said the development formed part of broader efforts to strengthen its aviation capabilities and sustain modern platforms throughout their operational life.
About the Author
Mirian Gom 
Korede Abdullah