The newly confirmed Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has pledged to lead a versatile, disciplined and lethal Nigerian Air Force (NAF) capable of keeping insurgents “running without time to think or plan.”
Speaking with resolve during his confirmation before the National Assembly, on Wednesday, the new CAS vowed to build an Air Force that responds swiftly, strikes precisely and acts intelligently across all spectrums of military operations, a force defined not only by strength, but by precision, professionalism and purpose.
He said: “I use the word lethal in a professional sense, because a man running from you will not have the time to plan to hurt you.”
Further noting that his leadership vision was anchored on training, technology, safety and strategic innovation, he emphasised that “true military power is not measured by brute force but by superior intellect and adaptability.”
His confirmation followed his nomination by President Bola Tinubu in accordance with Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, which empowers the President to appoint service chiefs subject to the approval of the National Assembly.
With the confirmation, he legally succeeds Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, joining other service chiefs as a member of the Armed Forces Council.
Lawmakers at the confirmation session praised Aneke’s depth of experience, operational leadership and intellect. They particularly commended his tenure as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, where he improved strategic airlift capability, strengthened joint operations, and enhanced the NAF’s responsiveness in complex security environments.
His leadership in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations was also lauded for its critical role in shaping Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts and internal security outcomes
Beyond the individual merit of his appointment, Aneke’s confirmation carries constitutional and strategic significance.
Constitutionally, it reinforces the principle of civilian oversight in military leadership and underscores the National Assembly’s role in ensuring transparency and democratic accountability within the Armed Forces.
Strategically, it marks continuity and confidence in a leadership transition aimed at consolidating NAF’s modernisation drive, expanding airpower projection, and deepening civil-military trust.
A scholar and strategist, AVM Aneke is a graduate of the United States Air War College, Montgomery, Alabama, and holds multiple advanced degrees, including Master’s degrees in Strategic Studies, International Affairs and Diplomacy, and Political Economy and Development Studies.
With more than 4,300 flight hours across many aircraft types, he stands among Nigeria’s most accomplished pilots and forward-looking airpower professionals.
