NAF Super Puma Returns to Service as CAS Charges Personnel to Boost Operational Readiness

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recorded a major operational milestone with the successful reactivation and commissioning of its Super Puma helicopter (NAF 565), reinforcing the Service’s commitment to sustaining decisive airpower in defence of the nation. 

The aircraft was commissioned on Tuesday, 4 February 2026, at 205 Rotary Wing, Ikeja, Lagos, by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who described the event as a powerful symbol of renewed capability, institutional focus, and operational resurgence within the Nigerian Air Force.

Speaking at the ceremony, the CAS noted that the return of the Super Puma helicopter goes beyond the restoration of a legacy platform, stressing that it reflects the NAF’s unwavering resolve to build and sustain a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force. According to him, maintaining and restoring critical assets remains a central pillar of the Service’s strategy to strengthen national security.

“This occasion is not merely about the return of an aircraft to our fleet, but a demonstration of our commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness and sustaining airpower capabilities in line with our constitutional mandate,” the CAS stated.

Air Marshal Aneke expressed deep appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his steadfast support toward airpower development. He emphasized that the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda continues to translate into tangible capability gains for the Nigerian Air Force through strategic acquisitions, upgrades, and the reactivation of key operational platforms.

He explained that the reactivation of the Super Puma helicopter underscores deliberate efforts by the NAF to remain fully prepared to respond to evolving security challenges and to maintain operational superiority across multiple theatres of operation nationwide.

Highlighting the operational value of the aircraft, the CAS described the Super Puma as one of the most versatile rotary-wing platforms in the NAF inventory. He noted that the helicopter plays a critical role in troop transport, casualty evacuation, search and rescue missions, 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 previously proven its worth in Operation Hadin Kai and other joint military operations. He noted that its return to service will significantly enhance maritime security operations within Lagos and adjoining coastal areas, while also strengthening counterinsurgency and anti-banditry efforts across the country.

Commending those involved in the successful reactivation, the CAS praised the consultant, retired Air Commodore T. A. Badru, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, as well as the engineers and technicians of 205 Rotary Wing, for their professionalism, dedication, and resilience. He urged personnel tasked with operating and maintaining the aircraft to adhere strictly to safety protocols and maintenance standards to ensure sustained serviceability.

“Let this aircraft reflect our strong culture of airmanship, maintenance discipline, and professional pride,” he charged, stressing that mission readiness is dependent on accountability and attention to detail. He also acknowledged the critical fiscal support provided through the National Assembly, describing inter-institutional cooperation as essential to sustaining the Nigerian Air Force’s operational momentum.

During a durbar with officers, airmen, and airwomen of collocated units at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja, the CAS reflected on his first 100 days in office, outlining measurable improvements in operational tempo and aircraft serviceability. He attributed these gains to improved coordination between logistics and operational elements, as well as targeted leadership focus.

Air Marshal Aneke further revealed that the NAF is fast-tracking the induction of advanced combat platforms, which he said would provide unprecedented precision strike capabilities and enhance Nigeria’s regional deterrence posture. He reaffirmed that modernization and capacity development remain top priorities of his leadership.

The CAS reiterated that personnel welfare is inseparable from operational effectiveness. While acknowledging accommodation projects initiated by his predecessor, he pledged to accelerate their completion to address housing deficits affecting personnel. Guided by the principle of “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare,” he assured officers and men of sustained improvements in allowances, medical services, and working conditions.

Concluding his engagements, the CAS urged NAF personnel to remain disciplined, innovative, and mission-focused as operations intensify across the country, reaffirming that the Nigerian Air Force will continue to justify the confidence reposed in it by the Government and the people of Nigeria.