Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke on Thursday officially assumed duty as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) with a promise to consolidate on the achievements of his predecessor, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, whose tenure was marked by professionalism, courage, and exceptional achievements, particularly in the fight against insurgency activities in the country.

Speaking during the handing and taking over ceremony in Abuja 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.

,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, H 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.

AVM Aneke further appreciated the Tenth National Assembly for its continued legislative and oversight support, and extended heartfelt thanks to his colleagues across the Armed Forces, whose solidarity has reinforced his resolve to advance ongoing initiatives for airpower efficiency and operational excellence.

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.

The CAS also 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.

Speaking earlier, 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.

While 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.

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. (TRIBUNE)