IRIA News

Nigeria has announced a significant step to enhance its counter-terrorism capabilities by procuring more than 50 new military aircraft. This ambitious plan, however, has sparked debates among defense analysts regarding its feasibility and strategic direction.

Speaking at the opening of two new aircraft hangars in northwestern Nigeria, Chief of the Air Staff Hassan Bala Abubakar outlined the details of the procurement plan. Abubakar said that his country plans to acquire 12 AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters, a dozen AW109 multi-purpose helicopters, 24 M-346 light fighter-trainer aircraft from Leonardo, and two C-295 medium tactical transport aircraft from Airbus.

He emphasized that these additions will bolster the Nigerian military offensives against jihadist groups and armed gangs terrorizing Nigeria’s northwest and central states. Deliveries of the new aircraft are expected to begin next year, signaling a swift enhancement of Nigeria’s aerial combat capabilities.

Leonardo recently confirmed its commitment to timely deliver the M-346 fighter aircraft to the West African country. Earlier, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it is to receive 24 M-346 fighter aircraft, with the first six expected to arrive before the end of 2024. The remaining aircraft would be delivered in tranches of six.

Is it an ‘Overambitious’ Plan?

Several international as well as Nigerian defense analysts have bluntly questioned the intent and feasibility of this procurement, labeling it as “overambitious.” Experts argued that procuring dozens of military aircraft may be misdirected, suggesting that funds should be allocated to the training of ground troops for counter-terrorism missions.

“I know it will bolster the fight against terrorism, but I believe that we should concentrate more on land than air,” Nigeria’s leading defense analyst Mike Ejiofor said. “We’re not at war!” he stressed. Ejiofor along with many other analysts believes that by focusing financial resources on ground forces, Nigeria could achieve more effective and sustainable results in combating terrorism and insurgency.

Despite the skepticism, Nigeria has made considerable investments in bolstering its counter-terrorism capabilities. Just last month, the country received 20 armored personnel carriers to strengthen its ground forces. Additionally, the army announced that it will soon receive a new fleet of tactical armored vehicles to combat growing threats from bandits and terrorists.

The Nigerian military has faced public scrutiny, particularly following a tragic airstrike in Kaduna state late last year that resulted in the deaths of more than 80 innocent people. The airstrike, intended to target gangs, highlighted the need for precision and accountability in military operations. In response, Nigerian officials have promised to enhance their operational precision to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Financial constraints and financial concerns

While the acquisition plan is ambitious, it raises questions about Nigeria’s financial capacity to sustain such a significant investment in military hardware. The country has faced economic challenges, including fluctuating oil prices, which have impacted its budget and financial stability. Analysts doubt whether Nigeria can afford the procurement of over 50 advanced military aircraft without compromising other critical areas of national development.

Moreover, the strategic shift towards a substantial air force enhancement may divert attention and resources from addressing underlying issues in ground operations. Ground troops, often the primary force in counter-terrorism efforts, require continuous training, better equipment, and logistical support to be effective against insurgents who operate in difficult and often inaccessible terrains.

Nigeria’s decision to procure advanced aircraft from international manufacturers like Leonardo and Airbus also has broader geopolitical implications. Strengthening its air force with sophisticated weaponry positions Nigeria as a significant military power in the region. This move could alter the balance of power in West Africa and influence regional security dynamics.

However, it also necessitates Nigeria maintaining strong diplomatic relations with these foreign manufacturers and the countries they are based in. Ensuring timely deliveries, technical support, and continued collaboration will be critical to the success of this ambitious plan.