The Nigerian government has approved a loan of approximately $618 million from a consortium of financiers to purchase six Italian-made M-346 attack jets and ammunition, according to Information Minister Mohammed Idris. The acquisition is part of the Nigerian Air Force’s broader fleet renewal strategy, which includes the purchase of 24 M-346 combat jets and 10 AW109 Trekker helicopters.

The first three jets from this order are expected to arrive by early 2025, with the remaining deliveries scheduled until mid-2026. The move underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to enhance its military capabilities, driven by the need to tackle escalating security challenges. These include the threat of armed bandits in the northwest and a prolonged Islamist insurgency in the northeast, led by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province.

The renewed focus on military spending reflects Nigeria’s strategy to modernize its air force and strengthen national security amid rising internal conflicts.