On 30 October 2025, The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) witnessed a significant change of command as Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Sunday Kelvin Aneke formally assumed office as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS). The ceremony, held at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja, marked a new chapter in the history of the service and underscored the continuity of leadership within Nigeria’s Armed Forces. In his inaugural address, AVM Aneke described his appointment as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” pledging to lead the Air Force with humility, integrity, and a renewed commitment to Nigeria’s national security. He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence reposed in him and reaffirmed the NAF’s “unflinching loyalty to the President, the Constitution, and the Nigerian people.”
Aneke also paid tribute to his predecessor, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, lauding his courage, professionalism, and transformative leadership. He credited Abubakar for steering the service through a defining era in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and insurgency, noting that the outgoing Chief’s tenure had strengthened the Air Force’s operational capacity and reputation.“Air Marshal Abubakar leaves behind a legacy of excellence, selfless service, and remarkable progress,” Aneke said. “My focus will be to consolidate on these achievements, strengthen inter-service cooperation, and enhance force readiness to meet evolving security challenges.”
In his valedictory address, Air Marshal Abubakar expressed gratitude to God, the Commander-in-Chief, and the Nigerian people for the opportunity to serve. Reflecting on his tenure, he highlighted several milestones, including enhanced operational efficiency, expanded capacity building, and Nigeria’s assumption of the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces. Abubakar described AVM Aneke as an officer of “proven integrity, dedication, and competence,” urging him to sustain the momentum of transformation, prioritize personnel welfare, and maintain a combat-ready, people-oriented force. He also paid tribute to fallen heroes and thanked colleagues, subordinates, and family members for their unwavering support throughout his service years.
The change of command symbolizes more than a leadership transition—it reflects the NAF’s institutional stability and commitment to continuity. Under AVM Aneke’s leadership, the Air Force is expected to deepen collaboration with the Nigerian Army and Navy, enhance intelligence-driven operations, and strengthen its role in internal security, border protection, and disaster response.
AVM Aneke’s career spans over three decades of professional military service, during which he has held several key command and staff appointments. Colleagues describe him as a disciplined, forward-thinking officer with a reputation for strategic insight and commitment to professionalism.
As he assumes office, expectations are high that the new Air Chief will advance the modernization of the Air Force, improve training and welfare, and sustain the service’s focus on innovation and efficiency. With the transition complete, the Nigerian Air Force enters a new era under AVM Aneke’s command—one defined by discipline, technological advancement, and mission focus, as the service remains Willing, Able, and Ready to defend Nigeria’s airspace and national sovereignty.
© Photos credit: NAF