By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) renewed commitment to air power readiness, personnel welfare, and technology-driven operations during his maiden operational visit to Tactical Air Command (TAC) and its collocated units in Makurdi on 12 December 2025.
According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the visit is part of the CAS’s ongoing engagement with frontline units nationwide to assess operational conditions, strengthen command presence, and reinforce expectations for enhanced mission delivery.
Addressing officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian staff during a durbar, Air Marshal Aneke reiterated that his newly unveiled Command Philosophy—“To enhance and sustain a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces for the realisation of national security objectives”—provides a fresh strategic direction for the Service. He explained that although concise, the philosophy embodies the mindset required to confront Nigeria’s evolving security threats.
The CAS emphasised TAC’s pivotal role in ongoing operations, stating that its contributions to Operation WHIRL STROKE and other theatres continue to demonstrate the Command’s indispensability. “Your courage, professionalism, and dedication inspire confidence across the country,” he said.
While commending personnel for their efforts, Air Marshal Aneke warned that the current security environment demands heightened vigilance and operational readiness. He urged commanders to intensify operations against banditry within their Area of Responsibility while sustaining essential support to joint operations nationwide. “This is not the time to slow down. To retain the initiative, we must ensure the highest levels of aircraft serviceability, weapons readiness, and personnel proficiency,” he said, noting that Nigerians rely on the NAF to remain effective and mission-ready.
Reaffirming his commitment to personnel welfare, the CAS said operational excellence is inseparable from a motivated force. He assured that his “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare” policy would prioritise prompt payment of allowances, improved living and working conditions, and strengthened administrative and medical systems. He added that open communication remains vital, as personnel concerns directly impact fighting power.
Speaking on operational directives, Air Marshal Aneke outlined the NAF’s transition toward intelligence-driven and technology-supported operations anchored on a robust safety culture. He highlighted the need to maximise the use of newly acquired platforms and innovations to improve operational effectiveness. “The Federal Government has shown great confidence in us through unprecedented investments in modern aircraft, armaments, and training programmes. We must justify that trust with measurable results,” he stated.
The CAS further assured that welfare, career development, and operational efficiency will remain central to his leadership. He urged personnel to remain loyal, vigilant, and dedicated to the Service’s core values.
Responding, the Air Officer Commanding TAC, Air Vice Marshal Patrick Obeya, expressed appreciation for the CAS’s guidance and pledged the Command’s full commitment to delivering on his strategic vision. He assured that TAC personnel remain motivated and prepared to deliver decisive air power across all theatres.
Air Marshal Aneke commended their dedication, adding: “Together, we will build a force that is agile, innovative, and capable of delivering air power effects wherever the nation requires.”
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