Tinubu Boosts Nigeria’s Air Power, Inducts Five New Helicopters and Unveils Presidential Fleet Hangar

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inducted five newly acquired helicopters into service and inaugurated a newly constructed hangar for the Presidential Air Fleet in Abuja, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s air capabilities.

The ceremony, held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, featured the induction of two Airbus H-125 helicopters and three AW-109 Trekker B helicopters manufactured by Italy’s Leonardo Helicopters. The Sun Nigeria+1

According to The Sun and TVC News, the event also marked the opening of the new hangar facility, designed to support aircraft accommodation and maintenance. The Sun Nigeria+1

The new helicopters are expected to strengthen the Nigerian Air Force’s operational capacity, particularly in intelligence gathering, surveillance, armed escort, close air support and search-and-rescue missions.

The H-125 helicopters will provide flexible light-aircraft support, while the AW-109 Trekker B aircraft are expected to support military operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.

The development forms part of the Federal Government’s wider efforts to modernise the Armed Forces and improve the availability of aircraft supporting troops on the ground. The Nigerian Air Force has also emphasised the importance of maintenance, logistics and crew readiness to ensure the new equipment delivers practical results. Nigerian Air FOrce+1

With Nigeria continuing to battle insecurity in several regions, attention will now turn to how effectively the additional aircraft can strengthen military operations and contribute to protecting lives and property.

Sources: The Sun Nigeria · TVC News · The Punch