NAF's New Mandate: AVM Aneke Vows to Keep Insurgents 'Running' After Senate Confirmation

The newly confirmed Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has declared a new, aggressive strategy for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), pledging to lead a force so potent and disciplined that it will keep insurgents "running without time to think or plan." 

AVM Aneke made the resolute vow during his confirmation before the National Assembly on October 29, 2025, emphasizing that his goal is to establish a versatile, disciplined, and lethal NAF.

“I use the word lethal in a professional sense,” he explained, “because a man running from you will not have the time to plan to hurt you.”

The new CAS outlined a leadership vision anchored on training, technology, safety, and strategic innovation. He stressed that future military success depends not on brute strength, but on adaptability: “True military power is not measured by brute force but by superior intellect and adaptability”

He vowed to build an Air Force that is swift in action, precise in strike, and intelligent in execution, defining the force by precision, professionalism, and purpose.

AVM Aneke’s confirmation followed his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in accordance with the Armed Forces Act. His approval by the National Assembly legally positions him as the successor to Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar and reinforces the vital principle of civilian oversight and democratic accountability in military leadership.

Lawmakers were quick to praise the new CAS's qualifications:

They lauded his depth of experience and intellectual grounding, noting he is a graduate of the United States Air War College and holds multiple advanced degrees, including Master's degrees in Strategic Studies.

 His tenure as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, was specifically commended for improving strategic airlift capability and enhancing joint operations.

 His leadership in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) was highlighted as being critical to the success of Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts.

A seasoned professional, AVM Aneke stands among Nigeria’s most accomplished pilots, having logged more than 4,300 flight hours across various aircraft types.

Witnessed by key dignitaries, including the Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the confirmation marks a strategic transition aimed at consolidating NAF’s modernisation drive and deepening civil-military trust.

AVM Aneke's message to Nigerians is clear: The Nigerian Air Force under his command will be built not merely for power, but for purpose, protection, and progress.