In a ceremony defined by dignity, reflection, and renewed purpose, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Thursday, 30 October 2025, marked another milestone in its history as Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke formally assumed duty as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS).
The colourful handing and taking over ceremony, held at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters in Abuja, symbolized not only a seamless transition of leadership but also the dawn of a new chapter for the Force.
Standing before senior officers, personnel, and dignitaries, AVM Aneke described his appointment as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty”—words that encapsulated both humility and the heavy responsibility that comes with leading one of Nigeria’s most strategic military arms. In his address, he pledged to lead with integrity, courage, and an unwavering dedication to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and advancing airpower excellence.
“This appointment is not merely an honour; it is a sacred trust,” Aneke said. “I am deeply grateful to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence reposed in me. I assure him, and indeed all Nigerians, of the unflinching loyalty of the Nigerian Air Force to the Constitution and the people of our great nation.”
The outgoing Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, in his valedictory remarks, reflected on a tenure defined by transformation and resilience. Under his leadership, the NAF recorded notable achievements in air operations, personnel welfare, and strategic partnerships.
He highlighted Nigeria’s historic assumption of the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces as a major diplomatic and professional stride that showcased the NAF’s growing influence on the continent.
Air Marshal Abubakar expressed gratitude to God, the President, and his colleagues, acknowledging the collective effort that underpinned his success. “We have come this far not by individual strength but by divine grace and teamwork,” he said, paying tribute to fallen heroes who laid down their lives in defence of the nation.
Describing AVM Aneke as “an officer of proven integrity and competence,” the former Air Chief expressed confidence that his successor would sustain the momentum and lead the NAF to even greater heights.
For AVM Aneke, the transition represents both continuity and innovation. His vision for the Nigerian Air Force revolves around three core principles: discipline, readiness, and mission focus. He emphasized the need to strengthen inter-service cooperation, advance technology-driven operations, and invest in personnel welfare as the foundation for operational success.
He assured that under his leadership, the NAF would remain “Willing, Able, and Ready”—a mantra reflecting the Force’s commitment to proactive defence and swift response to emerging security challenges. Aneke also extended appreciation to the Tenth National Assembly for its legislative support, acknowledging the importance of sustained collaboration between the military and policymakers in achieving national security goals.
Beyond the institutional agenda, the new Air Chief took a moment to acknowledge the human side of service—his family. With heartfelt gratitude, he thanked his wife and children for their sacrifices, describing their support as the silent strength behind his public duty.
As the applause faded and the ceremonial baton changed hands, the moment carried both weight and hope. For many within the Air Force community, AVM Aneke’s emergence signals continuity with reform—a blend of the tested and the new. His reputation for professionalism, quiet discipline, and results-driven leadership precedes him, and expectations are high that he will consolidate operational gains while fostering innovation and inclusivity across the ranks.
Under his command, the Nigerian Air Force is poised to deepen its commitment to defending the nation’s airspace, supporting joint operations, and contributing to regional stability. The emphasis on airpower intelligence, precision, and speed aligns with his broader vision of building an agile and adaptive force in an evolving security landscape.
As Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke takes over the cockpit of Nigeria’s air defence institution, the mood within the Force is one of optimism and renewed energy. His words, “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” resonate as both a personal creed and a guiding principle for the mission ahead.
In an era where national security demands precision, innovation, and unity of purpose, the Nigerian Air Force—under its 23rd Chief of the Air Staff—appears ready to soar higher. A new chapter begins, written not only in the sky but in the enduring spirit of service, sacrifice, and excellence that defines the men and women of the NAF.
Olayemi Esan is the MD/CEO of Spye Communications Limited (SpyeTV News Nigeria) and a PR practitioner. She can be reached on yemiesan04@gmail.com or 08035132961