New Air Chief vows united front with intelligence agencies to strengthen Nigeria’s security
Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the newly appointed Chief of the Air Staff, has pledged to forge stronger collaboration among the Armed Forces, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and restore lasting peace across the country.
Aneke made the commitment on Thursday in Abuja while officially assuming duty as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff, succeeding Hasan Abubakar.
The handover ceremony, held at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters in Abuja, marked the official transfer of leadership from the outgoing Chief of Air Staff, Hasan Abubakar, whose tenure was hailed for professionalism, operational achievements, and international partnerships.
In his inaugural address, Aneke vowed to work closely with the Nigerian Army, Navy, and other security and intelligence agencies to deliver a unified and robust national defence posture.
“We will leave no stone unturned in discharging our constitutional roles in conjunction with other sister Services, security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies to bring about swift improvement in the security situation of Nigeria,” Aneke said.
Describing his appointment as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” the new Air Chief pledged to lead with humility, integrity, and an unshakable commitment to Nigeria’s safety.
He commended his predecessor’s leadership, which he said was defined by courage, professionalism, and landmark successes, especially in the nation’s ongoing counterterrorism operations.
Aneke assured that under his command, the NAF would remain “Willing, Able, and Ready” to defend Nigeria’s airspace and contribute decisively to the nation’s broader security framework.
He also promised to consolidate existing gains, enhance force readiness, and maintain the Air Force as a disciplined, mission-focused, and technologically advancing arm of the Armed Forces.
“We will build on established foundations, strengthen inter-service synergy, and deliver the security architecture vital to Nigeria’s peace, progress, and transformation,” he affirmed.
In his valedictory remarks, Abubakar expressed deep gratitude to God for the opportunity to lead the NAF during what he described as a defining period in the Force’s history.
He highlighted major achievements, including advancements in operational efficiency, personnel development, and global partnerships, notably Nigeria’s assumption of the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces.
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He described Aneke as “an officer of proven integrity, dedication, and competence” who possesses the leadership qualities to elevate the Air Force to new heights.
“I urge my successor to sustain the gains recorded, keep the NAF combat-ready and people-focused, and continue to prioritise the welfare of personnel as the foundation of operational effectiveness,” Abubakar said.
The outgoing Air Chief also paid tribute to fallen airmen and women who, he said, “paid the supreme price in defence of Nigeria’s unity and peace.”
He appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the Defence Headquarters, colleagues, and his family for their support throughout his service.
