The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Thursday, October 30, 2025, marked a historic moment in its leadership transition as Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke formally assumed office as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS).
Speaking during the handing and taking over ceremony at NAF Headquarters, AVM Aneke described his appointment as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” pledging to lead the Air Force with humility, integrity, and an unflinching commitment to national security.
He expressed profound respect for his predecessor, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, whose tenure, he noted, was marked by professionalism, courage, and exceptional achievements particularly in the fight against terrorism.
On behalf of officers, airmen, and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force, AVM Aneke commended Air Marshal Abubakar’s legacy of excellence and dedication to the service of the nation.
In his valedictory remarks, the outgoing Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Abubakar, expressed gratitude to Almighty God for the privilege of serving the nation during what he described as “a defining period” in NAF’s history. He recounted significant milestones recorded under his leadership, including operational efficiency, capacity development, and international collaboration highlighted by Nigeria’s assumption of the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces.
Describing his successor as an officer of “proven integrity, dedication, and competence,” the former Air Chief expressed confidence in AVM Aneke’s ability to elevate the Air Force to greater heights. He also paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for Nigeria’s peace and unity, and urged his successor to sustain the gains achieved, uphold the welfare of personnel, and maintain a combat-ready and people-focused force.
In his inaugural address, AVM Aneke reaffirmed his loyalty to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and assured that the Air Force under his command would remain “Willing, Able, and Ready” to defend the nation’s airspace and safeguard its territorial integrity.
He also extended appreciation to the Tenth National Assembly for its continued legislative and oversight support, as well as to his colleagues across the Armed Forces for their solidarity and shared vision for a more secure Nigeria. AVM Aneke paid tribute to his family for their steadfast encouragement as he steps into his new responsibilities.
The new Air Chief pledged to build on existing foundations, strengthen inter-service cooperation, enhance force readiness, and ensure that the Nigerian Air Force continues to stand as a disciplined, resilient, and mission-focused component of national defence.
With the formal handover complete, the Nigerian Air Force begins a new chapter under the leadership of AVM Sunday Kelvin Aneke one defined by continuity, innovation, and renewed purpose. His commitment to excellence and strategic transformation is expected to reinforce NAF’s role as a symbol of professionalism, national pride, and unwavering service to Nigeria.