By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has set a renewed strategic direction for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), reaffirming the Service’s commitment to mission readiness, welfare-driven warfare, and smarter air power delivery during his maiden operational visit to Tactical Air Command (TAC) and its collocated units in Makurdi on 12 December 2025.
In an official statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed that the visit is part of the CAS’s nationwide engagement with frontline units to assess operational realities, strengthen command presence, and reinforce expectations for enhanced mission effectiveness.
Addressing officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian staff during a durbar, Air Marshal Aneke highlighted his newly unveiled Command Philosophy: “To enhance and sustain a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces for the realisation of national security objectives.” He explained that while the philosophy is concise, it reflects the mindset required to tackle Nigeria’s evolving security threats. He also underscored TAC’s crucial role in ongoing operations, stating: “Your contributions to Operation WHIRL STROKE and our other operational theatres continue to demonstrate that Tactical Air Command is indispensable to our mission. Your courage, professionalism, and dedication inspire confidence across the country.”
While commending personnel for their sacrifices, the CAS warned that the prevailing security landscape demands heightened vigilance and sustained operational intensity. He urged commanders to strengthen air operations against banditry within their Area of Responsibility and maintain critical support to joint operations nationwide. “This is not the time to slow down,” he said. “To retain the initiative in today’s complex security space, we must ensure the highest levels of aircraft serviceability, weapons readiness, and personnel proficiency. The Nigerian people see your sacrifices, and they depend on us to remain effective and mission-ready.”
Air Marshal Aneke also reaffirmed his leadership’s commitment to welfare, stressing that operational excellence is impossible without a motivated, healthy, and well-supported force. He reiterated his “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare” policy, assuring personnel that Headquarters NAF will continue to prioritise timely allowances, improved living and working conditions, and strengthened administrative and medical systems. He encouraged open communication, saying: “Your welfare impacts our fighting power. While we cannot solve every challenge at once, we will prioritise and address the most pressing issues using a structured approach.”
The CAS further highlighted the Service’s transition toward intelligence-driven, technology-enabled operations anchored on enhanced safety standards. He noted that improved operational efficiency would rely on innovation, disciplined processes, and optimal use of newly acquired platforms. According to him, “The Federal Government has shown great confidence in us through unprecedented investments in modern aircraft, armaments, and training programmes. It is our duty to justify that trust by delivering measurable results with discipline, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence across all levels of the Service.”
In his closing remarks, Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed his dedication to fostering a safe, efficient, and supportive working environment for all personnel, noting that welfare, career development, and mission effectiveness will remain defining pillars of his leadership. He urged officers and airmen to remain loyal, vigilant, and committed to the core ideals of the Service.
Responding, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal Patrick Obeya, expressed appreciation to the CAS for his clear guidance and visionary direction. He pledged TAC’s unwavering alignment with the CAS’s priorities and reaffirmed the readiness of its personnel to continue delivering decisive air power across all theatres.
Air Marshal Aneke commended the command for its dedication, stating that “Together, we will build a force that is agile, innovative, and capable of delivering air power effects wherever the nation requires.”
