NAF Super Puma helicopter returns to service, strengthening operational readiness

By Kingsley Omonobi

LAGOS — The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has boosted its combat readiness with the reactivation of the Super Puma helicopter (NAF 565) at the 205 Rotary Wing in Lagos. The commissioning ceremony was held on Wednesday and led by the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, who reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to maintaining decisive airpower in national defense.

Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, said the CAS described the event as “a powerful symbol of renewed capability and institutional focus.”

“This occasion is not merely about the return of an aircraft to our fleet, but a demonstration of our unwavering commitment to enhance and sustain a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force,” the CAS stated. He emphasized that restoring legacy platforms is central to strengthening national security.

The CAS expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in advancing airpower development, noting that the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda has translated into tangible capability gains for the NAF through strategic acquisitions and restoration of critical assets.

Highlighting the Super Puma’s operational value, the CAS described it as “one of the most versatile rotary-wing platforms in the NAF inventory.” He noted its critical roles in troop transport, casualty evacuation, search and rescue, and logistics support. The helicopter has previously been instrumental in operations such as Hadin Kai and other joint missions, and its return is expected to significantly enhance maritime security in Lagos while supporting counterinsurgency and anti-banditry efforts nationwide.

The CAS commended the consultant, retired Air Commodore TA Badru, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, and the technicians of 205 Rotary Wing for their professionalism and resilience in reactivating the aircraft. He urged personnel responsible for operating and maintaining the Super Puma to adhere strictly to safety and maintenance standards, saying, “Let it reflect our strong culture of airmanship, maintenance, and pride.”

Acknowledging support from the National Assembly, the CAS described inter-institutional cooperation as vital to sustaining operational momentum. During a durbar with officers, airmen, and airwomen at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, he reflected on his first 100 days in office, outlining measurable gains in operational tempo and improved aircraft serviceability achieved through tighter synchronization between logistics and operations.

Air Marshal Aneke also revealed that the NAF is fast-tracking the induction of advanced combat platforms to provide “unprecedented precision strike capabilities and regional deterrence,” while stressing that modernization remains a priority.

He further highlighted the link between personnel welfare and operational effectiveness, promising to accelerate completion of accommodation projects and improve allowances, medical support, and working conditions under the principle of “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare.”

Concluding, the CAS urged all personnel to remain disciplined, innovative, and mission-focused as operations intensify across the nation, reaffirming that the Nigerian Air Force will continue to justify the confidence of the Government and the people of Nigeria.

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