The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully reactivated its Super Puma helicopter, NAF 565, which had earlier been grounded due to unserviceability, in a move aimed at strengthening operational capability and sustaining airpower across the country.
The aircraft was restored through the combined efforts of retired Air Commodore T.A. Badru, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, and personnel of 205 Rotary Wing.
The reactivation ceremony was conducted on Tuesday by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
Confirming the development in a statement on Wednesday, NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the return of the Super Puma reflects ongoing efforts by the Service to restore critical platforms and ensure mission readiness.
Speaking at the event, Air Marshal Aneke described the reactivation as more than the return of an aircraft, noting that it represents the Air Force’s commitment to maintaining a professional, motivated, and combat-ready force.
“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,” he said, adding that restoring legacy platforms remains central to strengthening national security.
Aneke described the Super Puma as one of the most versatile rotary-wing platforms in the NAF inventory, capable of troop transport, casualty evacuation, search and rescue, and logistics support. He noted that the helicopter has played key roles in Operation Hadin Kai and other joint missions.
According to him, the aircraft’s return will significantly enhance maritime security operations in Lagos while reinforcing counterinsurgency and anti-banditry efforts nationwide.
The Air Chief commended retired Air Commodore Badru, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, and personnel of 205 Rotary Wing for their contributions to the successful reactivation. He also urged operators and maintenance crews to strictly observe safety and maintenance standards to sustain the aircraft’s serviceability.
He further acknowledged the National Assembly for its fiscal support to the Nigerian Air Force.
During a durbar with officers, airmen, and airwomen at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Aneke reviewed his first 100 days in office, citing improvements in aircraft serviceability and operational tempo. He attributed the gains to enhanced coordination between logistics and operations.
The Air Chief also disclosed plans to fast-track the induction of new combat platforms to boost precision strike capability and deterrence.
On personnel welfare, Aneke said the Service would prioritise the completion of accommodation projects initiated by his predecessor to address housing challenges, while improvements in allowances, medical services, and working conditions would continue in line with NAF welfare policies.
He urged personnel to remain disciplined and professional as nationwide operations intensify, reiterating the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to its constitutional responsibilities.
The Super Puma helicopter remains a critical asset in NAF operations, particularly in the North-East, and its reactivation forms part of broader efforts to restore key platforms and improve operational readiness amid sustained security engagements across the country.