The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully airlifted sensitive electoral materials for the 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election and a series of senatorial and federal constituency by-elections scheduled to hold on 20 June 2026, reinforcing its support for democratic governance through its Aid to Civil Authority operations.
According to an official signed statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the operation was carried out between 15 and 16 June 2026 following a request from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the secure and timely transportation of sensitive electoral materials from Abuja to various locations across the country.
The statement noted that the airlift operation supported preparations for the Ekiti State Governorship Election, as well as senatorial by-elections in Enugu North Senatorial District of Enugu State, Nasarawa North Senatorial District of Nasarawa State, and Rivers South East Senatorial District of Rivers State. It also covered federal constituency by-elections in Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency of Kano State and Zuru/Shanga Federal Constituency of Kebbi State.
Leveraging its strategic airlift capabilities, the NAF transported the materials from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to designated airports in Enugu, Rivers and Kano States, ensuring their delivery within the timelines stipulated by INEC ahead of the elections.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the professionalism and commitment of NAF personnel involved in the mission. He said the successful operation reflects the Service’s unwavering dedication to supporting democratic institutions and contributing to national development.
Air Marshal Aneke further reaffirmed the readiness of the NAF to continue providing timely and effective assistance to civil authorities in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, while maintaining a high level of operational readiness in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.
The statement emphasized that the mission highlights the enduring partnership between the NAF and INEC in protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process. It added that the prompt delivery of sensitive electoral materials remains crucial to the conduct of credible elections and the strengthening of public confidence in democratic institutions.
The NAF noted that the successful completion of the operation demonstrates the versatility of its air power capabilities in advancing critical national objectives while sustaining ongoing military operations across various theatres. It also reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to national service and its role as a dependable partner in promoting Nigeria’s democratic and developmental aspirations.
