…TAKES OVER AS 23RD CAS FROM AIR MARSHAL ABUBAKAR
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) today, 30 October 2025, witnessed a landmark transition of leadership as Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke officially assumed duty as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS).
In his inaugural address during the handing and taking over ceremony, AVM Aneke described his appointment as “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” pledging to lead with humility, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to national security.
He expressed deep respect for his predecessor, whose tenure was marked by professionalism, courage, and exceptional achievements, particularly in the fight against terrorism.
On behalf of all officers, airmen, and airwomen, the new Air Chief commended the outgoing leader’s legacy of excellence and service to the nation.
In his valedictory remarks, the outgoing Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God for the privilege of serving the nation and leading the NAF through a defining period in its history.
He highlighted significant milestones in operational efficiency, capacity development, and intercontinental collaboration, including Nigeria’s historic assumption of the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces.
Handing over the mantle of leadership to AVM Aneke, he described his successor as an officer of proven integrity, dedication, and competence, one well-prepared to elevate the NAF to greater heights. He also paid heartfelt tribute to fallen heroes, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifice in defence of Nigeria’s unity and peace.
The former Air Chief urged his successor to sustain the gains recorded, maintain a combat-ready and people-focused Air Force, and continue prioritising the welfare of personnel as the bedrock of operational effectiveness.
Concluding his valedictory remarks, he expressed gratitude to the President, the Armed Forces leadership, his course mates, colleagues, and family for their support throughout his service, while affirming his enduring confidence in the NAF’s capacity to uphold its sacred mandate.
In his own address, AVM Aneke reiterated that his appointment was both “a tremendous privilege and a solemn duty,” while expressing deep gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the confidence reposed in him.
He reaffirmed the unflinching loyalty of the Nigerian Air Force to the President, the Constitution, and the Nigerian people, assuring that under his leadership, the NAF would remain Willing, Able, and Ready to safeguard the nation’s airspace, strengthen inter-service synergy, and deliver the security architecture vital to Nigeria’s peace, progress, and transformation.
He also paid tribute to his wife and children for their steadfast encouragement and understanding as he takes on the demands of his new role. Concluding his address, the CAS pledged to build on established foundations, enhance force readiness, and ensure that the Nigerian Air Force remains a disciplined, resilient, and mission-focused arm of national defence.
With the formal handover complete, the Nigerian Air Force ushers in a new era under the leadership of Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, one defined by continuity, innovation, and renewed purpose.
His pledge to build a disciplined, resilient, and mission-focused Air Force reflects both a deep respect for the achievements of his predecessors and a clear vision for the future: an institution that is swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution.
The Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame added that as the NAF charts its next chapter under his command, Nigerians look ahead with confidence to an Air Force that not only defends the skies but also stands as a symbol of excellence, professionalism, and national pride.
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