By Joy Odor, Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Thursday turned a new page in its storied history as Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke assumed command as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), pledging to lead with integrity, discipline, and mission focus in safeguarding Nigeria’s airspace and national sovereignty.
In a solemn but symbolic handover ceremony at NAF Headquarters, Abuja on Thursday, AVM Aneke described his appointment as both “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” vowing to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, whose tenure he hailed as a “legacy of professionalism and courage.”
“Under my leadership, the Nigerian Air Force will remain willing, able, and ready steadfast in safeguarding our skies and supporting national security objectives,” Aneke declared.
The new Air Chief, appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assured officers and men of the service of a leadership defined by transparency, collaboration, and operational excellence.
“I will lead with humility, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility. We will modernize our force, enhance inter-service synergy, and strengthen the Air Force’s role in internal security operations,” he said.
Outgoing CAS, Air Marshal Abubakar, in an emotional farewell address, expressed gratitude to God and the NAF family for their loyalty and sacrifice throughout his tenure.
He listed major milestones achieved under his command including Nigeria’s historic chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces, welfare reforms for personnel, and operational breakthroughs against insurgents and bandits.
“This journey has been one of service, sacrifice, and fulfillment,” Abubakar said. “I leave the cockpit with pride, knowing that my successor is a man of proven competence and character.”
He urged the new Air Chief to sustain the operational momentum, consolidate airpower capabilities, and honor the memory of fallen heroes “who paid the ultimate price for Nigeria’s unity and peace.”
AVM Aneke, in his inaugural remarks, acknowledged the support of the Tenth National Assembly, sister services, and his family, pledging to deepen inter-agency collaboration and reposition the Air Force as a disciplined, mission-driven, and innovation-focused institution.
“Our goal is a modernized Air Force built on discipline, precision, and professionalism,” he emphasized. “Together, we will deliver credible airpower that ensures a secure Nigeria.”
With the formal handover complete, the NAF enters a new era under Aneke’s command, one anchored on continuity, integrity, and renewed purpose.
His appointment signals not just a change of leadership but a reaffirmation of the Air Force’s enduring creed: “Willing. Able. Ready.”
