The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness, professionalism, and safety across all Nigerian Air Force (NAF) formations nationwide.
Air Marshal Aneke stated this on Thursday while speaking during his maiden strategic meeting with Branch Chiefs and Air Officers Commanding, held at the Blue Room, NAF Headquarters, Abuja.
The meeting, which brought together the top echelon of the Service, was convened to deliberate on key operational and administrative issues, assess current challenges, and develop pragmatic, result-oriented strategies to strengthen air power delivery in support of national security objectives.
The CAS described the session as a critical platform to ‘refocus, realign, and reposition the Nigerian Air Force for greater impact.’
He noted that the Service stands at a defining moment where its operational actions have direct implications for the security and stability of the nation.
According to him, ‘The aspirations of millions of Nigerians rest, in part, on how effectively we carry out our duties. Mr President has given clear and express directives, and those directives will be implemented to the letter. There will be no ambiguity in our posture. The time for action is now, and we will deliver.’
The CAS, who emphasised that his administration would be anchored on professionalism, discipline, and clarity of purpose, explained that every policy and resource allocation would revolve around two central pillars – operations and safety – supported by robust logistics, cutting-edge technology, and efficient administration.
According to him, ‘This is about putting square pegs in square holes. The Nigerian Air Force needs leaders who can deliver, and I believe we have assembled the right team to take us to the next level.’
During the meeting, participants engaged in frank, constructive, and solution-driven deliberations aimed at refining NAF’s strategic direction and operational posture.
Air Marshal Aneke encouraged open and candid discussions, adopting the Chatham House Rule to promote free expression of ideas.
According to him, ‘Everyone will be heard, and every contribution geared towards achieving practical outcomes. We have developed actionable frameworks that will translate into measurable results in the field, ensuring that every operation contributes directly to mission success.’
He further reassured Nigerians of the Air Force’s unwavering commitment to working closely with sister services and other security agencies to eliminate terrorism and other threats to national peace.
He stressed that the NAF would continue to strengthen civil-military relations through community engagement and people-focused operations.
According to him, ‘Protecting civilian lives and preventing collateral damage will remain a defining hallmark of our professionalism.’
The CAS expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his confidence and leadership and assured that the NAF would remain steadfast in realising the President’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria.