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During these peace-keeping operations, foreign air forces aircraft were employed to airlift the Nigerian Army Regiment to and from the theatres of operation. b.

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE NIGERIAN AIR FORCE

The idea of establishing an air force for Nigeria was first mooted in 1961 following the nation's participation in peace-keeping operations in Congo and Tanganyika (now Tanzania). The Nigerian Government at the time, no doubt, recognized the urgent need to establish an air force actively supported by modern facilities to provide full complement of forces to enhance the nation's military posture. Early in 1962, the Government agreed in principle that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) be established. The Nigerian Parliament, therefore, approved the establishment of the NAF and recruitment of cadets commenced in June 1962. Consequently, the NAF was officially established by a statutory Act of Parliament in April 1964 to serve four main purposes namely:
a. To achieve a full complement of the military defence system of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, both in the air and on the ground. To ensure a fast versatile mobility of the Armed Forces. c. To provide close support for the ground-based and sea borne forces in all phases of operations and to ensure the territorial integrity of a united Nigeria. d. To give the country the deserved prestige that is invaluable in international matters. It was in 1962 that the drive for the required manpower for the planned air force started. Simultaneous with this development, Government was in dialogue with some friendly nations on the possibility of training Nigerian Air Force personnel in various specialist fields. The first batch of 10 cadets was enlisted in 1962 to undergo training with the Ethiopian Air Force. The second set of 16 cadets was enlisted in February 1963 to undergo training with the Royal Canadian Air Force while six cadets were sent to the Indian Air Force. The stage was thus set for the training of its personnel in the country. Consequently, several countries were approached but the lot fell on the German Air Force to provide technical assistance for the local training of NAF personnel and this materialized in 1963. While the NAF was still at its infancy as a fighting force, the laudable plans made by the German Air Force Assistance Group were prematurely put to test barely three years after its establishment. The inexperienced Air Force assumed the role of a well established Air Force in order to prosecute the Nigerian civil war in close collaboration with sister Services. At this stage of its existence, the NAF was only equipped with a few aircraft. As the war progressed, some fighter aircraft such as MIG 15 and 17 were acquired to help bring the war to a speedy end. The Nigerian Civil War came to an end in 1970 and there was the need to re-organize the Nigerian Air Force and up-grade its equipment. In order to strengthen itself, the NAF between 1981 and 1990 acquired additional aircraft types of advanced technology. With the acquisition of new weapon platforms, there was a need to train personnel to man and maintain the new aircraft types. This led to the re-organisation of training in all aspects of NAF specialties. Following the expansion of the NAF over time and the need to enforce all international laws and conventions relating to space activities in the Nigerian airspace, the Federal Government promulgated Decree 105 (Armed Forces Amendment Decree) on 23rd August 1994 which provided additional roles for the NAF. These additional roles include:
a. Enforcing and assisting in coordinating the enforcement of international laws, conventions, practices and customs ascribed and acceded to by Nigeria relating to aerial or space activities in the Nigerian airspace. Coordinating and enforcing all national and international air laws acceded or ascribed to by Nigeria and
c. Delineating, demarcating and coordinating all aerial surveys and security zones of the Nigerian airspace.

07/09/2026

NAF DELIVERS NEW STAFF QUARTERS TO SECONDARY SCHOOL IN BAYELSA, ADVANCING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commissioned a newly constructed staff quarters at Biseni Secondary School, Biseni, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. Commissioned on 5 September 2026 under the Special Intervention Projects initiative of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the facility comprises one two-bedroom flat and four self-contained flats. The project was executed in honour of Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, an illustrious son of Bayelsa State, and underscores the NAF’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure and strengthening civil-military relations.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Chief of the Air Staff, represented by the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal MN Onyebashi, described the intervention as a key component of the NAF’s non-kinetic line of operations. He noted that such projects are aimed at strengthening trust, winning the hearts and minds of the civil populace, and generating positive implications for ongoing operations. He further reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to delivering interventions that promote quality education and community development.

Representing the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Nimibofa Ayawei, described the project as a significant contribution to improving educational standards and the welfare of teachers. He also commended its wider community development impact and urged the people of Biseni to emulate the gesture portrayed by Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe. The project reflects the NAF’s commitment to practical interventions that improve the lives of Nigerians while deepening the bond between the Service and the communities it serves.

06/09/2026

CAS INFORMAL ENGAGEMENT BOOSTS MORALE, ADVANCES OPERATIONAL GOALS

Open dialogue. Shared purpose. Stronger action. The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, engages senior NAF leaders to strengthen morale, sharpen operational focus and drive practical solutions for a more cohesive, mission-ready force.

06/09/2026

NAF BUILDS MISSION-READY CABIN CREW CAPABILITY TO STRENGTHEN AVIATION SAFETY

The Air Traffic Services Training Centre (ATSTC), Kaduna, has graduated 23 Airmen and Airwomen from the Cabin Crew Initial Course 2/2026, reaffirming the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to aviation safety, professional excellence and operational effectiveness. The graduation ceremony, held on 4 September 2026, marked another milestone in the development of highly skilled personnel capable of meeting the demands of military and civil aviation.

Representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Air Officer Commanding Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshal Essen Paul Effanga, emphasised that aviation safety is the direct outcome of rigorous training, strict adherence to professional standards and uncompromising competence. He charged the graduates to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity and professionalism, noting that their responsibilities extend beyond passenger service to the safety, security and survival of aircraft occupants during routine and emergency operations. The Commandant of ATSTC, Air Vice Marshal NB Folaji, reaffirmed the Centre’s resolve to remain a centre of excellence in aviation training, producing competent, disciplined and mission-ready personnel.

Beyond the classroom, the competencies acquired by the graduates are vital to the Nigerian Air Force’s wider operational effectiveness. Through training in cabin safety, emergency management, first aid, aviation security and survival techniques, they are better prepared to support safe and efficient air operations, including the movement of personnel and the ex*****on of aviation duties in demanding environments. Their professionalism and readiness therefore contribute to the Service’s broader counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and internal security efforts, where the protection of lives, operational continuity and the effective employment of air power remain essential to mission success.

06/09/2026

NAF DELIVERS NEW CLASSROOMS, CLEAN WATER TO POTISKUM COMMUNITIES

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) commissioned community intervention projects in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State on 5 September 2026, reinforcing its commitment to civil-military relations and grassroots development. Executed under the Chief of the Air Staff’s (CAS) Special Intervention Projects initiative in honour of Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Idi Sani, the projects include the renovation and furnishing of three blocks containing six classrooms and three staff offices at Sabon Gari Primary School, as well as the rehabilitation of two blocks at the Transit Secondary School site, comprising four classrooms, a multipurpose laboratory, students’ kitchen and three staff rooms. Four solar-powered boreholes were also constructed at Nahuta, Yindiski Gakoko, Gabar da Kasuwa and Maina Kaina, while an existing borehole behind the New Modern Market, Potiskum, was rehabilitated and fitted with a modern fetching point.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, represented by the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, AVM Ahmad Idris, said the projects formed part of the NAF’s broader non-kinetic operations aimed at strengthening mutual trust and fostering greater cooperation with host communities. He explained that, beyond its constitutional responsibility of defending the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting lives and property, the NAF recognises the importance of supporting communities within its operational areas. According to him, the intervention projects address critical needs in education and access to potable water, complement government efforts and contribute to improved living conditions, while strengthening the confidence and cooperation essential to ongoing security operations.

The Special Guest of Honour and Executive Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, represented by the Commissioner of Wealth Creation, Empowerment and Employment Generation, Hon. Aji Yareemah Bularafa, described the projects as a demonstration of effective civil-military cooperation and urged the benefiting communities to safeguard the facilities and sustain their partnership with the NAF and other security agencies. Earlier, AVM Idi Sani, who executed and formally handed over the projects, expressed appreciation to the CAS for his visionary leadership and institutional support, as well as to the Yobe State Government, traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders for their cooperation. He urged the benefiting communities to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities so they would continue to serve their intended purposes and benefit present and future generations.

05/09/2026

NAF GRADUATES 459 REGIMENT PERSONNEL TO STRENGTHEN FORCE PROTECTION CAPABILITY

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has graduated 459 Regiment Personnel, comprising 10 Officers and 449 Airmen/Airwomen, following specialized training at the Regiment Training Centre, Kaduna. The graduation, held on 4 September 2026, underscores the Service’s commitment to developing the personnel required to meet evolving national security challenges.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, represented by the Chief of Training, Headquarters NAF, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Dari, emphasized that effective force protection is critical to sustaining airpower projection and safeguarding critical Service and national assets. He reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to deliberate training and mission-oriented force development to generate agile, resilient and combat-ready forces. The enhanced capability is expected to support the NAF’s ongoing efforts in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, while strengthening the protection of critical Service and national assets. For Nigerians, it represents another step towards a more capable, responsive and resilient Air Force committed to safeguarding lives, supporting national security and contributing to a safer and more secure country.

The graduates were charged to uphold discipline, courage, teamwork and vigilance as they return to their respective units. The Commandant of the Regiment Training Centre, Air Vice Marshal Isaac Subi, expressed confidence that the training would enhance their contributions to operational effectiveness and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to quality professional military training.

04/09/2026

NAF COMMISSIONS WELFARE RECREATIONAL PROJECTS TO BOOST PERSONNEL MORALE, OPERATIONAL EFFECTIVENESS

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commissioned newly completed accommodation and recreational facilities in Abuja, reaffirming its commitment to personnel welfare, infrastructure renewal and operational effectiveness. Commissioned on 4 September 2026 by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the projects include Airmen’s Quarters at Mogadishu Cantonment and Abacha Road, 065 Medical Officer’s Quarters, and the NAF Valley Base Sports Complex, Asokoro.

Speaking at the occasion, the CAS described the development as a significant milestone in the NAF’s deliberate efforts to improve the living conditions, physical well-being and overall effectiveness of its personnel. He emphasised that adequate accommodation and recreational facilities are essential to sustaining morale, cohesion, physical fitness and operational readiness, while highlighting ongoing efforts to develop a sustainable formula for affordable homeownership for NAF personnel and their families.

The CAS also revealed that blocks of the newly commissioned accommodation have been named after officers and airmen who paid the supreme price or distinguished themselves gallantly in the operational theatre, preserving their legacy and inspiring future generations. He commended all contributors to the projects, urged beneficiaries to ensure their proper maintenance and judicious use, and reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to building a well-supported, motivated and operationally effective force.

04/09/2026

NAF STRENGTHENS PERSONNEL WELFARE, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR GREATER OPERATIONAL EFFECTIVENESS

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare, career development and professional competence of its personnel as essential pillars of operational effectiveness. In furtherance of this commitment, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, approved the engagement of the Air Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Chidiebere Obinna Obiabaka, with NAF personnel at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Lagos, on 2 September 2026.

The interactive durbar, which also involved participants of the Pre-Discharge Course 2/2026, provided an opportunity to engage on issues relating to personnel welfare, career progression, training, professional development and other matters of importance to the Service. The engagement underscored the CAS’s commitment to ensuring that NAF personnel are adequately supported, professionally developed and motivated to deliver effectively in service to the nation.

The NAFRC Commandant, Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo, appreciated the CAS for his continued emphasis on personnel welfare, training and development, while reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to sustaining excellence in personnel preparation. AVM Obiabaka also commended the Centre for its important role in personnel development and education. The engagement further reflects the NAF’s recognition of its serving and retired personnel as a valuable national resource whose experience, expertise and continued contribution remain important to Nigeria’s security and economic development.

03/09/2026

NAF, NPF STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP FOR PEACEFUL 2027 ELECTIONS

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reaffirmed their commitment to stronger inter-agency cooperation and a secure electoral environment. Together, the Services are advancing shared efforts towards a safer and more secure Nigeria.

03/09/2026

PHOTO NEWS: SECURITY AGENCIES REAFFIRM JOINT COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHENING NIGERIA’S SECURITY

Spokespersons of Nigeria’s defence, security and law enforcement agencies convened in Abuja for a Joint Security Press Briefing, bringing together the Director of Defence Information (DDI), Defence Headquarters, Service Spokespersons and other agency spokespersons to highlight ongoing coordinated efforts to safeguard lives and property and protect national interests. The engagement spotlighted sustained inter-agency collaboration in confronting terrorism, violent extremism, criminality and other security threats, while reinforcing the importance of information sharing and strategic communication in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture. The unified engagement reflects a shared commitment to proactive, professional and coordinated action towards a safer, more secure and prosperous Nigeria.

02/09/2026

NAF, NPF STRENGTHEN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AHEAD OF 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on 2 September 2026 paid a courtesy visit to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Olatunji Rilwan Disu NPM, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, reaffirming the longstanding partnership between the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in advancing national security. The engagement highlighted the importance of sustained inter-agency cooperation, building on the strong collaboration between both Services in addressing security challenges across the country.

Ahead of the 2027 General Elections, the CAS emphasised the need for closer coordination, timely information sharing and strengthened institutional cooperation to support a secure and peaceful electoral environment. He also identified opportunities to further enhance collaboration through the effective utilisation of existing capabilities and expertise, while exploring areas where NAF Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets could support Police operations. In response, the IGP welcomed the engagement and reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to continued partnership with the NAF and other security agencies in support of national security and peaceful elections.

The meeting further explored opportunities for joint capacity development, including knowledge exchange in intelligence, forensics, crime scene management and criminal investigations. The CAS noted that stronger cooperation in training and professional development would enhance the capabilities of personnel across both Services and further consolidate their institutional partnership. The engagement underscores the shared commitment of the NAF and NPF to working in synergy, strengthening professional capacity and contributing to a safer and more secure Nigeria.

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