By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on 4 March 2026 undertook a strategic operational visit to Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where he commissioned key infrastructure projects, inaugurated a new training institution and reinforced the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) operational footprint in the Niger Delta.
The visit, part of his ongoing nationwide operational tour of NAF formations and theatres, is aimed at assessing operational readiness, enhancing personnel welfare and strengthening critical partnerships in support of national security. This was disclosed in an official statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
During the visit, the CAS paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, where he underscored the importance of sustained civil–military cooperation in securing the Niger Delta. Air Marshal Aneke described his return to Yenagoa as significant, recalling his previous service as Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command. He noted that Bayelsa occupies a strategic position within Nigeria’s security and economic framework and reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to protecting lives, critical national assets and ensuring lasting peace in the region.
Governor Diri commended the Nigerian Air Force for its consistent role in safeguarding vital oil and gas infrastructure and maintaining stability in the state. He particularly welcomed the establishment of a new training institution in Yenagoa, describing it as a major boost to capacity development and collaboration between the Service and the state government. The Governor reiterated his administration’s readiness to sustain strong ties with the NAF in advancing security and development.
At the Headquarters of Operation DELTA SAFE, the Chief of the Air Staff was received by the Commander, Rear Admiral O.B.F. Oladipo, who praised the NAF for its steadfast operational support to the joint task force. He highlighted the Air Component’s intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and air mobility capabilities, noting that these contributions have significantly strengthened ongoing efforts to combat economic sabotage and protect critical national assets across the theatre.
In a gesture of solidarity, Air Marshal Aneke also paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Erujakpo, conveying the heartfelt sympathies of the Nigerian Air Force and describing the deceased as a devoted public servant whose legacy would endure.
A major highlight of the tour was the inauguration of the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Administrative Management in Yenagoa. The institute is designed to provide specialised training in administration, management and public relations, enhancing professional competence within the Service and fostering deeper civil–military cooperation. The CAS also commissioned the residence of the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command and performed the groundbreaking ceremony for additional infrastructure projects before inspecting facilities at Headquarters Mobility Command to evaluate ongoing upgrades aimed at boosting operational efficiency.
Addressing officers, airmen and airwomen during a durbar at Headquarters Mobility Command, Air Marshal Aneke commended their professionalism and dedication, describing the Command as the logistical backbone of the Nigerian Air Force. He noted that while combat units deliver precision airpower, Mobility Command provides the reach, sustainability and operational depth that enable the NAF to project decisive capability nationwide.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal Michael Onyebashi, welcomed the CAS and expressed appreciation for his sustained support, assuring him of the Command’s unwavering commitment to discipline, professionalism and operational excellence.
