…Promises Renewed Commitment to National Defence
By Nkechi Eze
In a ceremony laden with military tradition and solemnity, the Nigerian Air Force today ushered in a new era of leadership as Air Vice Marshal Sunday Aneke formally assumed duty as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS).
Draped in the precision and decorum befitting military transitions, the handover event at NAF Headquarters bore witness to the symbolic transfer of authority, first from the outgoing CAS, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, and then into the stewardship of AVM Aneke. Among dignitaries present were senior Air Force officers, representatives of other service branches, and key defence stakeholders.
In his inauguration address, AVM Aneke characterized his appointment as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” promising to lead with humility, integrity, and an unyielding commitment to Nigeria’s security. He paid warm tribute to his predecessor, noting that his tenure was marked by “professionalism, courage, and exceptional achievements,” particularly in the ongoing campaign against terrorism.
“On behalf of all officers, airmen, and airwomen, I commend the outgoing Chief’s legacy of excellence and service to the nation,” he declared, affirming that his administration will strive to preserve continuity, while injecting fresh energy into the institution’s core mandates.
In his valedictory remarks, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar expressed deep gratitude to Almighty God for the opportunity to serve, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence placed in him. He highlighted key milestones achieved under his watch: enhancements in operational efficiency, strengthened capacity, and a landmark assumption by Nigeria of the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces.
Handing over the mantle, he described AVM Aneke as an officer of proven integrity, dedication, and competence, one well-prepared to build on existing gains. He urged the new Chief to sustain momentum, maintain a combat-ready but people-focused force, and to continue prioritizing the welfare of personnel as the foundation of operational effectiveness.
“I remain confident in the NAF’s capacity to uphold its sacred mandate,” he stated. He also paid heartfelt tribute to fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price defending Nigeria’s peace and unity.
AVM Aneke’s inaugural address touched on key strategic pillars he intends to emphasize: the unflinching loyalty of the Nigerian Air Force to the President, the Constitution, and the Nigerian people; the imperative of strengthening inter-service synergy; and a renewed focus on airspace defence, force readiness, and institutional innovation.
He extended his appreciation to the Tenth National Assembly for legislative and oversight support, and to his counterparts across the Armed Forces for their solidarity. He also acknowledged the support of his wife and children, a reminder that behind every leader is a personal foundation of family.
Aneke pledged his determination to build a disciplined, resilient, and mission-focused Air Force, one that is “swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution.” He affirmed that he will build upon established foundations, but also pursue strategic innovation, modernization, and institutional renewal.
The ceremony culminated in the signing of the handover notes, the decoration of the new Chief with the CAS insignia, inspection of the quarter guard, and group photographs with principal staff and commanders. all visual affirmations of the smooth transition.
With AVM Sunday Aneke now at the helm, the Nigerian Air Force embarks on its next chapter. The baton has passed, the guard has been inspected, and expectations run high: a disciplined, effective, and innovative aerial arm poised to play its full part in Nigeria’s security, sovereignty, and future.
