When Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke assumed office as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) on October 30, 2025, he delivered a compelling message: the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will be swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution. This philosophy marks a shift toward purposeful lethality achieving decisive outcomes with intelligence, restraint, and responsibility in the face of Nigeria’s complex, asymmetric security threats.
According to Director information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Marshal Aneke’s appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signifies strategic continuity in the transformation of one of Africa’s most dynamic air forces.
“Known as a strategist and consummate professional, Air Marshal Aneke brings a blend of experience and intellect, honed over three decades of service and more than 4,300 flight hours. An alumnus of the United States Air War College, he holds advanced degrees in Strategic Studies, International Affairs, and Political Economy.”
He described his new role as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” pledging to lead with humility, integrity, and an unyielding commitment to national security. He affirmed the NAF’s readiness to defend Nigeria’s airspace while contributing meaningfully to peace and stability.
His track record as Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command saw him revitalize the Service’s strategic airlift capabilities, enabling rapid deployment of troops and logistics critical to counter-insurgency in the North-East and anti-banditry campaigns in the North-West. Colleagues describe him as “a leader who speaks sparingly but acts decisively.”
Air Marshal Aneke’s philosophy of Intelligent Lethality underpins his vision for the modern NAF a force that seamlessly integrates technology, training, and accountability.
At his Senate confirmation, he articulated his approach:
The Nigerian Air Force will respond swiftly, strike precisely, and act intelligently across the full spectrum of military operations.”
His agenda emphasizes:
Integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and data-driven operations.
Interoperability among military services, supported by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and real-time situational awareness.
Strategic Innovation, training, technology, and safety as the four pillars of a *thinking Air Force.
Beyond Combat: Guardian of Communities
The CAS’s vision extends beyond traditional combat roles. He is repositioning the NAF as a guardian of communities, prioritizing Civil-Military Relations (CMR) and Quick Impact Projects (QIPs). By expanding the Service’s humanitarian footprint through rescue operations, health outreaches, and infrastructure support, these efforts serve as strategic tools for strengthening public trust.
His leadership is tasked with sustaining the NAF’s renaissance phase, marked by the induction of modern aircraft (T-129 ATAK, A-29 Super Tucanos, AW-109 Trekker helicopters) and the successful reactivation of older fleets through local innovation.
Commitment to Safety and Personnel
For Air Marshal Aneke, safety is non-negotiable.He insists that “No mission is truly successful if lives are lost unnecessarily,” underscoring his commitment to maintenance culture and personnel welfare. He believes the NAF’s greatest asset is its people, and his leadership will prioritize morale, mentorship, and the well-being of every airman and woman.
Internationally, he is expected to deepen partnerships with allies like the United States, France, and African counterparts, focusing on joint training and intelligence sharing.
As Air Marshal Aneke takes command, he stands as a symbol of both continuity and renewal, charting a new course for Nigeria’s defence architecture: one that fights smarter, protects better, and serves with distinction.
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