The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has directed senior commanders of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to pursue operational excellence with unity, discipline, and strategic clarity, warning that the Service must remain mission-ready amid evolving security threats.
Delivering opening remarks at a high-level meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, and Unit Commanders on 11 February 2026, Air Marshal Aneke described the engagement as a critical platform for reflection following his first 100 days in office. He praised personnel for their dedication and sacrifices during recent operational visits but emphasized the need for renewed focus and collective resolve.
“Together, we will continue to build a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces,” the CAS declared.
Air Marshal Aneke highlighted the volatility of the global and regional security environment, citing instability in the Sahel, the spread of extremist violence, and shifting geopolitical alignments with direct implications for Nigeria’s defence posture. He noted that while some progress has been made domestically, insurgency, banditry, and emerging extremist threats demand sustained pressure and adaptive strategies.
The CAS also stressed the importance of political neutrality with elections approaching, condemning any attempt to undermine democratic order. “The Nigerian Air Force remains loyal to the democratically elected government. We will not tolerate indiscipline or unlawful conduct within our ranks,” he affirmed.
The meeting focused on performance review, operational recalibration, and future capability development, including advancements in airpower application and unmanned systems. Air Marshal Aneke urged commanders to engage in frank, solution-driven discussions that translate into measurable improvements across the Service.
Reassuring the nation of the NAF’s readiness, he concluded: “We are in a season of renewed hope and expectation… and we will not disappoint,” reaffirming the Air Force’s commitment to operational excellence, decisive action, and national security.
