By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has approved the promotion of 57 senior officers to the ranks of Air Vice Marshal and Air Commodore, in a major step toward strengthening the Service’s leadership and operational capacity.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
According to the statement, 27 senior officers were elevated to the rank of Air Vice Marshal. They are: SA Eyoma, GI Jibia, AA Adebomehin, ES Odekina, CE Akubue, SO Eyekosi, AO Akinbuwa, LI Kamat, AG Akinyimika, AO Bamidele, AK Famuyiwa, PJ Edem, SA Madaki, OT Salami, FO Ankeli, MJ Chidama, JJ Ijudigal, M Umar, IJ Ogbodo, U Ariahu, AL Dakwat, CE Akpa, EC Ukpong, IS Subi, IM Yusha’u, SS Lazarus and F Ekpah.
Additionally, 30 officers were promoted to Air Commodore. They include MA Imam, AA Komolafe, HI Eze, DU Edet, MB Umar, GH Okoh, SP Sekegor, PP Okonkwo, PU Okweugo, AU Yahaya, M Yahaya, IR Ubeh, OK Cole, EA Ifebi, RK Olundu, IO Akpasa, AK Mohammed, HA Meshack, SN Nwachi, ZB Shuwa, EJ Alabila, SA Osoniyi, AO Ogunmola, AJ Arumona, BI Jayeoba, CE Akuh, NN Onuoha-Mba, PA Garba, YM Abdullahi and M Suleiman.
The NAF said the promotions followed a rigorous assessment process focused on merit, professional competence, operational performance and alignment with the Service’s strategic goals.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the elevation of the officers as recognition of their sacrifice, excellence and commitment to national defence. He said the promotions were essential to deepening command responsibility and improving the Service’s readiness in the face of evolving threats, including terrorism, banditry and cross-border crimes.
“This elevation is not just recognition, it is responsibility,” he stated, urging the newly promoted officers to demonstrate integrity, operational precision and strong leadership while strengthening joint efforts with other security agencies.
Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to ongoing reforms aimed at building a smarter, technology-driven and highly responsive force. He congratulated the newly promoted officers and expressed confidence in their ability to deliver on the expectations of the nation.
admin