In a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s naval capabilities, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) formally handed over three Agusta Westland (AW) 109 Trekker Helicopters to the Nigerian Navy at a ceremony held at the Caverton Helicopters Limited (CHL) hangar in Ikeja, Lagos.

The AW 109 helicopters, known for their advanced design, feature a VIP configuration complete with full leather interiors and noise attenuation systems, providing an optimal environment for critical missions and personnel transport. Equipped with landing skids, these helicopters offer greater load capacity compared to their wheeled counterparts. Additionally, auxiliary fuel tanks grant these helicopters extended endurance of up to 3 hours and 40 minutes, making them suitable for long-range transport operations. The helicopters can also be retrofitted with mission-specific equipment, expanding their versatility for various operational demands.

The handover ceremony was attended by key figures, including Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, who received the helicopters on behalf of the Nigerian Navy. Other dignitaries included Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary of the MOD; Dr. Raji Isiaka Ogunshola, Director of Navy Affairs at the MOD; Chief Remi Makanjuola, President of Caverton Group; and Group Captain Bello (rtd.), Managing Director of Caverton.

Vice Admiral Ogalla expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support of the Nigerian Armed Forces, and specifically for prioritizing the naval force’s needs. He also acknowledged the efforts of both the Minister of Defence and the Minister of State for Defence in securing these helicopters, which are expected to significantly enhance the Navy’s capabilities in areas such as aerial reconnaissance, search and rescue, air insertion, and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC).