By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on March 4, 2026, conducted a strategic operational visit to Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where he engaged personnel of Headquarters Mobility Command and collocated units of the Nigerian Air Force, commissioned key infrastructure projects, and inaugurated a new training institution.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the visit was described as part of the Chief of the Air Staff’s ongoing operational tour of formations and theatres nationwide. The tour is aimed at assessing operational readiness, improving personnel welfare, and strengthening partnerships critical to national security.
During the visit, Air Marshal Aneke paid a courtesy call on the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, where he stressed the importance of sustained civil–military cooperation in safeguarding the Niger Delta. He noted that his return to Yenagoa was significant, having previously served as Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command.
According to him, Bayelsa occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s security and economic architecture, assuring that the Air Force remains committed to working with the state government and stakeholders to protect lives and critical national assets.
Governor Diri, in his response, commended the Nigerian Air Force for its sustained role in maintaining stability and protecting vital oil and gas infrastructure in the region. He particularly appreciated the establishment of a training institution in Yenagoa, noting that it would deepen cooperation and create opportunities for capacity development.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Air Force in promoting security and development in the state.
At the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force, Operation DELTA SAFE, the Commander, Rear Admiral O.B.F. Oladipo, received the Chief of the Air Staff and praised the Nigerian Air Force for its unwavering operational support.
He highlighted the significant contribution of the Air Component’s intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and air mobility capabilities to ongoing efforts aimed at protecting critical national assets and combating economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.
In a further show of solidarity, Air Marshal Aneke paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Erujakpo, where he conveyed the condolences of the Nigerian Air Force and described the deceased as a dedicated public servant whose contributions would be remembered. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed and comfort for the bereaved family.
A major highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Administrative Management in Yenagoa. The institute is expected to provide specialised training in administration, management, and public relations, thereby strengthening professional capacity within the Service and supporting broader civil–military cooperation initiatives.
The Chief of the Air Staff also commissioned the residence of the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command and performed the groundbreaking for additional infrastructure projects before touring facilities at Headquarters Mobility Command to assess ongoing developments.
Addressing officers, airmen, and airwomen during a durbar with personnel of Headquarters Mobility Command and collocated units, the Chief of the Air Staff commended them for their professionalism and dedication. He described Mobility Command as the logistical engine room of the Air Force, noting that while fighter units deliver precision strike capability, the Command provides the reach, sustainability, and operational depth required to project decisive air power nationwide.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal Michael Onyebashi, welcomed the Chief of the Air Staff and assured him of the Command’s continued commitment to professionalism, discipline, and operational readiness.
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