🇳🇬 Air Vice Marshal Aneke assumes office as 23rd Chief of the Air Staff

A new era has dawned at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters as Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke formally assumed office as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff, pledging to serve with humility, integrity, and dedication to national security.

Zig Diaries | Defence
Date: Thursday, 30 October 2025
Time: 14:35 WAT
Location: 📍 Abuja, Nigeria

In his inaugural address during the handing and taking over ceremony, Air Vice Marshal Aneke described his appointment as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” promising to lead with humility and an unwavering commitment to national security.

According to a statement by the Nigerian Air Force Directorate of Public Relations and Information, the new Air Chief expressed deep respect for his predecessor, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, whose tenure was marked by professionalism, courage, and exceptional achievements, particularly in the fight against terrorism.

On behalf of all officers, airmen, and airwomen, AVM Aneke commended the outgoing leader’s legacy of excellence and service to the nation.

In his valedictory remarks, Air Marshal Abubakar expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God for the privilege of leading the Nigerian Air Force through a defining period in its history. He highlighted major 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, he described his successor as “an officer of proven integrity, dedication, and competence, one well-prepared to elevate the NAF to greater heights.”

He paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of Nigeria’s unity and peace, while urging his successor to sustain the gains recorded, maintain a combat-ready and people-focused Air Force, and continue prioritising the welfare of personnel.

In his response, AVM Aneke expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him, reaffirming the loyalty of the Nigerian Air Force to the President, the Constitution, and the Nigerian people.

He assured that under his leadership, the Force 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 and progress.

AVM Aneke also appreciated the National Assembly for its legislative and oversight support, as well as colleagues across the Armed Forces for their solidarity and cooperation.

Concluding his remarks, the new Chief of the Air Staff pledged to build on established foundations, enhance force readiness, and ensure the NAF remains disciplined, resilient, and mission-focused.

With the formal handover complete, the Nigerian Air Force ushers in a new era defined by continuity, innovation, and renewed purpose — a command guided by precision, intelligence, and an unflinching dedication to Nigeria’s sovereignty.

🏷️ Tags: Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, Hasan Bala Abubakar, Defence, Leadership Transition, Security, National Defence

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