By Bavoriat Clara
The newly confirmed Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has vowed to lead a versatile, disciplined, and formidable Nigerian Air Force (NAF) that will keep insurgents “running without time to think or plan.”
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS reaffirmed his resolve to reposition the Service for greater operational efficiency and strategic dominance.
“I use the word lethal in a professional sense,” AVM Aneke clarified. “Because when a man is running from you, he has no time to plan to hurt you.”
He further explained that his leadership vision is anchored on training, technology, safety, and strategic innovation, adding that “true military power is not measured by brute force but by superior intellect and adaptability.”
Speaking with conviction during his confirmation before the National Assembly on 29 October 2025, the new Air Chief pledged to build a Force that responds swiftly, strikes precisely, and operates intelligently across all spectrums of military operations — a Force defined not only by strength but by precision, professionalism, and purpose.
AVM Aneke’s confirmation followed his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in line with Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, which empowers the President to appoint Service Chiefs subject to the approval of the National Assembly. With this confirmation, he officially succeeds Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, joining other Service Chiefs as a member of the Armed Forces Council.
Lawmakers during the session commended AVM Aneke’s vast operational experience, intellectual depth, and leadership acumen. They particularly cited his outstanding performance as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, where he enhanced the NAF’s strategic airlift capacity, strengthened joint operations, and improved the responsiveness of air operations in complex security environments. His leadership in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations also earned praise for significantly shaping Nigeria’s counter-insurgency and internal security outcomes.
Beyond the personal merit of his appointment, AVM Aneke’s confirmation bears both constitutional and strategic significance. Constitutionally, it reinforces the principle of civilian oversight and democratic accountability within the military. Strategically, it represents continuity and confidence in a leadership transition aimed at consolidating NAF’s modernization drive, expanding airpower projection, and deepening civil–military trust.
A scholar and strategist, AVM Aneke is an alumnus of the United States Air War College, Montgomery, Alabama, and holds multiple advanced degrees, including Master’s degrees in Strategic Studies, International Affairs and Diplomacy, and Political Economy and Development Studies. With over 4,300 flight hours across multiple aircraft types, he stands as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished pilots and forward-looking airpower professionals.
The confirmation session was witnessed by Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado, among other dignitaries.
As he assumes office, AVM Aneke’s message to Nigerians is clear and resolute:
“Under my command, the Nigerian Air Force will be swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution a Force built not merely for power, but for purpose, protection, and progress.”
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