The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has undergone a significant leadership transition with the official assumption of duty by Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff on Thursday, 30 October 2025.
In his inaugural address, he pledged to uphold the principles of humility, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to national security.
AM Aneke described his appointment as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” pledging to lead with humility, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to national security.
He expressed deep respect for his predecessor, whose tenure was marked by professionalism, courage, and exceptional achievements, particularly in the fight against terrorism. On behalf of all officers, airmen, and airwomen, the new Air Chief commended the outgoing leader’s legacy of excellence and service to the nation.
In his valedictory remarks, outgoing Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God for the privilege of serving the nation and leading the NAF through a defining period in its history.
He highlighted significant milestones in operational efficiency, capacity development, and intercontinental collaboration, including Nigeria’s historic assumption of the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces.
Handing over the mantle of leadership to AM Aneke, he described his successor as “an officer of proven integrity, dedication, and competence, one well-prepared to elevate the NAF to greater heights.”
He also paid heartfelt tribute to fallen heroes, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifice in defence of Nigeria’s unity and peace.
The former Air Chief urged his successor to sustain gains, maintain a combat-ready and people-focused Air Force, and continue prioritising the welfare of personnel as the bedrock of operational effectiveness.
Concluding his valedictory remarks, he expressed gratitude to the President, the Armed Forces leadership, his course mates, colleagues, and family for their support throughout his service, while affirming his enduring confidence in the NAF’s capacity to uphold its sacred mandate.
In his own address, AM Aneke reiterated that his appointment was both “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” while expressing deep gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the confidence reposed in him.
He reaffirmed the unflinching loyalty of the Nigerian Air Force to the President, the Constitution, and the Nigerian people, promising that under his leadership, the NAF would remain willing, able, and ready to safeguard the nation’s airspace, strengthen inter-service synergy, and deliver the security architecture vital to Nigeria’s peace, progress, and transformation.
AM Aneke further appreciated the Tenth National Assembly for its continued legislative and oversight support, and extended heartfelt thanks to his colleagues across the Armed Forces, whose solidarity has reinforced his resolve to advance ongoing initiatives for airpower efficiency and operational excellence.
He also paid tribute to his wife and children for their steadfast encouragement and understanding as he takes on the demands of his new role.
Concluding his address, the CAS pledged to build on established foundations, enhance force readiness, and ensure that the Nigerian Air Force remains a disciplined, resilient, and mission-focused arm of national defence.
As the NAF charts its next chapter under his command, Nigerians look ahead with confidence to an Air Force that not only defends the skies but also stands as a symbol of excellence, professionalism, and national pride.