Nigeria’s air chief sounds battle call in Makurdi, vows welfare-driven air power offensive

Nigeria’s Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to stronger air power readiness, personnel welfare and intelligence-led operations during his first operational visit to the Tactical Air Command in Makurdi, north-central Nigeria.

In a statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the air chief said the visit on 12 December was part of his nationwide engagement with frontline units to assess operational conditions, strengthen command presence and reinforce expectations for improved mission delivery.

Addressing officers and personnel, Air Marshal Aneke unveiled his command philosophy, which he said was aimed at building a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in support of national security objectives. He described Tactical Air Command as central to ongoing operations, praising its role in Operation Whirl Stroke and other theatres.

The air chief warned that Nigeria’s evolving security challenges required heightened vigilance, urging commanders to intensify operations against banditry while sustaining support for missions across the country. He stressed the need for high aircraft serviceability, weapons readiness and continuous training to maintain operational advantage.

He also placed strong emphasis on welfare, reiterating his policy of “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare”. Air Marshal Aneke assured personnel of continued priority for prompt payment of allowances, improved living and working conditions, and strengthened medical and administrative support, noting that morale and operational effectiveness were closely linked.

On strategy, he highlighted a shift towards intelligence-driven and technology-supported operations, backed by a reinforced safety culture. He said recent government investments in modern aircraft, armaments and training must translate into measurable operational results.

Responding, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal Patrick Obeya, pledged the unit’s full alignment with the air chief’s vision, assuring that personnel remained motivated and committed to delivering decisive air power across all operational theatres.