Army to expand aviation wings to curb security threats – COAS

From Molly Kilete, Abuja

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, says the Nigerian Army has concluded arrangements to expand its aviation wings to confront evolving security challenges bedevilling the country.

He said this has become necessary as the aviation wing remains a critical pillar in the modernisation drive and a decisive force multiplier for the Nigerian Army.

Gen Shaibu further stated that the ongoing expansion of army aviation capabilities and enhancement of unmanned aerial systems are vital enablers that significantly improve response times, precision engagement and situational awareness across multiple theatres of operation.

The COAS, who made this known when he received the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, however, noted that sustained policy support and predictable resource allocation are essential to maximising the operational impact of air power.

The COAS, while noting that operational superiority in today’s complex threat environment demands seamless integration of advanced aviation platforms and unmanned aerial systems with responsive administrative frameworks, said the ongoing expansion of army aviation capabilities and enhancement of unmanned aerial systems are vital enablers that significantly improve response times, precision engagement and situational awareness across multiple theatres of operation.

According to him, these capabilities are redefining battlefield dynamics and strengthening the ability of the Nigerian Army to project power, dominate operational space and protect the civil populace.

Lieutenant General Shaibu further noted that the success of these modernisation efforts depends largely on sustainable funding structures, efficient procurement processes and robust logistical support. He stressed that predictable resource flows will ensure continuity, operational effectiveness and long-term dominance, enabling the Army Aviation component to fully deliver on its strategic mandate in support of ground operations.

The COAS also drew attention to the growing infrastructural and logistical demands arising from increased personnel strength approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. With thousands of recruits currently in training, he advocated deliberate investment in barracks construction and facility upgrades to guarantee adequate accommodation, enhanced welfare and improved living standards, which he described as essential to morale, cohesion and operational effectiveness.

In his remarks, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, who described the visit as a strategic engagement to deepen collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Army, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening administrative synergy, eliminating procedural bottlenecks and prioritising resource governance and policy implementation in support of the army’s aviation expansion and broader modernisation agenda to ensure sustained operational superiority and national security.