The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) has revealed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has acquired military assets worth $801 million (₦1.15 trillion) from the United States within just 18 months in office.

 

In a policy statement signed by IMPI Chairman, Dr. Omoniyi Akinsiju, the group described the acquisitions as a bold reflection of the government’s commitment to strengthening national security and enhancing the country’s defence capabilities.

 

Akinsiju noted that 2024 marked Nigeria’s highest arms import expenditure in recent history, with over ₦520 billion spent on weapons and military equipment — representing about 67% of total arms imports between 2020 and 2024.

 

A key highlight, he said, was the $455 million purchase of 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from American aerospace manufacturer Bell Textron, aimed at boosting counterinsurgency and counterterrorism operations.

 

He further disclosed that in August 2025, Nigeria finalized another $346 million defence package that includes over 1,000 MK-82 bombs and 5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) rounds, as well as training and logistics support.

 

According to Akinsiju, the latest procurement will enhance the precision-strike capability and operational readiness of the Nigerian Armed Forces in their fight against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and armed bandit groups.

 

“This scale of investment reflects President Tinubu’s political will to combat terrorism and safeguard Nigerians,” Akinsiju stated.

 

He also suggested that recent U.S. policy remarks concerning Nigeria might be motivated more by competition with China in the global arms market than by issues related to religion or human rights.