Uche Cecil Izuora
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has taken broader steps to improve operational efficiency of the Air Force especially in the Niger Delta region.
To ensure sustainable operational effectiveness, Aneke, has undertaken a strategic operational visit to Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where he engaged personnel of Headquarters Mobility Command and collocated Nigerian Air Force (NAF) units, commissioned key infrastructure projects and inaugurated a new training institution. The visit forms part of the CAS’s ongoing operational tour of NAF formations and operational theatres across the country aimed at assessing operational readiness, improving personnel welfare and strengthening partnerships critical to national security.
During the visit, the CAS paid a courtesy call on the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Douye Diri, where he emphasised the importance of sustained civil–military cooperation in safeguarding the Niger Delta region. Air Marshal Aneke described his return to Yenagoa as particularly significant, having previously served as Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command. “Bayelsa State occupies a strategic place within Nigeria’s security and economic architecture. The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to working closely with the Bayelsa State Government and other stakeholders to ensure the protection of lives, critical national assets and sustained peace across the Niger Delta,” he stated.
In his response, Governor Douye Diri commended the Nigerian Air Force for its continued role in maintaining stability and protecting vital oil and gas infrastructure in the region. He also appreciated the Service for establishing a training institution in Yenagoa, noting that the initiative would deepen cooperation between the Nigerian Air Force and the Bayelsa State Government while creating opportunities for capacity development. The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the strong partnership with the Nigerian Air Force in promoting security and development in the state.
At the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force, Operation DELTA SAFE, the Commander, Rear Admiral OBF Oladipo, received the Chief of the Air Staff and commended the Nigerian Air Force for its unwavering operational support to the joint task force. He particularly acknowledged the overwhelming contribution of the NAF Air Component to the success of ongoing operations across the theatre, noting that the intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and air mobility capabilities provided by the Nigerian Air Force have significantly enhanced the effectiveness of joint efforts aimed at protecting critical national assets and combating economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.
In a further demonstration of compassion and solidarity, the Chief of the Air Staff paid a condolence visit to the widow of the late Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Erujakpo. During the visit, Air Marshal Aneke conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the Nigerian Air Force to the bereaved family and the people of Bayelsa State, describing the late Deputy Governor as a dedicated public servant whose contributions to governance and development would be fondly remembered. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed soul and for strength and comfort for the family during this difficult time.
A highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Administrative Management (NAFIAM) in Yenagoa. The institute will provide specialised training in administration, management and public relations, strengthening professional capacity within the Service while also supporting broader civil–military cooperation initiatives. The CAS also commissioned the residence of the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command and performed the groundbreaking ceremony for additional infrastructure projects within the base before touring facilities at Headquarters Mobility Command to assess ongoing developments aimed at enhancing the Command’s operational capabilities.
Addressing officers, airmen and airwomen during a durbar with personnel of Headquarters Mobility Command and collocated units, the CAS commended them for their professionalism and dedication to duty. “Mobility Command remains the logistical engine room of the Nigerian Air Force. While fighter units deliver precision strike capability, it is this Command that provides the reach, sustainability and operational depth that enable the Nigerian Air Force to project decisive airpower across the country,” he said. Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal Michael Onyebashi, welcomed the CAS and expressed appreciation for his continued support to the Command, assuring him that personnel would remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and operational readiness in the execution of their duties.