- AVM Aneke pledges a versatile, disciplined, and lethal Air Force
The newly confirmed Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has vowed to build a versatile, disciplined, and professionally lethal Nigerian Air Force (NAF) capable of keeping insurgents “running without time to think or plan.”
Speaking during his confirmation before the National Assembly on October 29, 2025, AVM Aneke said his leadership vision is anchored on training, technology, safety, and strategic innovation, stressing that “true military power is not measured by brute force but by superior intellect and adaptability.”
“I use the word lethal in a professional sense,” Aneke explained. “A man running from you will not have the time to plan to hurt you. My goal is to ensure that the Nigerian Air Force keeps our adversaries constantly on the move.”
He pledged to lead a force that responds swiftly, strikes precisely, and acts intelligently across all military operations — one defined by precision, professionalism, and purpose.
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 National Assembly approval. With the confirmation, he officially succeeds Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar and becomes a member of the Armed Forces Council.
Lawmakers commended AVM Aneke’s depth of experience and operational leadership, particularly highlighting his record as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, where he improved strategic airlift capabilities, strengthened joint operations, and enhanced the NAF’s responsiveness in complex security environments.
Aneke’s leadership in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations was also praised for its pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s counter-insurgency and internal security efforts.
Beyond his professional achievements, Aneke’s appointment underscores both constitutional oversight and strategic continuity — reinforcing civilian accountability in military leadership and advancing NAF’s modernisation drive.
