By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Thursday, 30 October 2025, witnessed a historic transition of leadership as Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Sunday Kelvin Aneke officially assumed duty as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS). The ceremony marked the formal handing and taking over between the outgoing Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, and his successor at the NAF Headquarters, Abuja.
In his inaugural address, AVM Aneke described his appointment as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” pledging to lead with humility, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to national security. He commended the immediate past Chief of the Air Staff for his exemplary leadership, professionalism, and outstanding contributions, particularly in enhancing NAF’s operational efficiency and its role in counterterrorism operations.
The new Air Chief expressed profound appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence reposed in him, reaffirming the Air Force’s unalloyed loyalty to the President, the Constitution, and the Nigerian people. He assured that under his leadership, the NAF would remain “Willing, Able, and Ready” to defend the nation’s airspace, promote inter-service cooperation, and strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
AVM Aneke also acknowledged the support of the Tenth National Assembly for its legislative and oversight backing, while appreciating his colleagues across the Armed Forces for their solidarity. He further paid tribute to his family for their encouragement and understanding, pledging to build upon existing legacies, enhance force readiness, and sustain a disciplined, mission-oriented, and people-focused Air Force.
In his valedictory remarks, the outgoing Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, thanked Almighty God for the opportunity to serve and lead the NAF through what he described as “a defining period in the history of the Force.” He highlighted key achievements during his tenure, including improved operational efficiency, enhanced personnel welfare, and Nigeria’s historic assumption of the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces.
Air Marshal Abubakar described his successor as an officer of proven integrity, professionalism, and dedication, capable of advancing the NAF to greater heights. He urged him to sustain the progress recorded and maintain the service’s focus on excellence, innovation, and personnel welfare. He also paid glowing tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity.
Concluding his address, the former Air Chief expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Defence Headquarters, his course mates, colleagues, and family members for their unwavering support throughout his service, reaffirming his faith in the NAF’s ability to uphold its constitutional mandate.
With the formal handover completed, the Nigerian Air Force enters a new phase under the leadership of AVM Sunday Kelvin Aneke — one anchored on continuity, innovation, and renewed purpose. His commitment to maintaining a disciplined, resilient, and mission-focused force underscores his vision of an Air Force that remains swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution — a true symbol of national pride and professional excellence.
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