The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has said the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will prioritise intelligence-driven operations to improve mission effectiveness and strengthen national security outcomes.
Aneke stated this on Thursday during a durbar with personnel of the Air Training Command and co-located units at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Kaduna, as part of his maiden operational tour of the command. He described Kaduna as central to the history of the NAF and said the engagement was aimed at direct interaction, exchange of ideas and reaffirmation of shared responsibility to the service’s values and mission.
The CAS explained that upon assuming office as the 23rd Chief of Air Staff, he reviewed key challenges affecting operational effectiveness and introduced a command philosophy anchored on motivation, professionalism and mission readiness. According to him, the philosophy provides a framework for decision-making, planning, training and conduct across NAF headquarters, commands and units.
He commended officers, airmen and airwomen of the Air Training Command for their professionalism and dedication, stressing that operational success depends largely on the quality of training, sustainment systems and innovation through emerging technologies and partnerships.
Aneke noted that despite progress recorded, Nigeria’s security environment remains complex, with threats such as banditry requiring sustained pressure, discipline and high readiness. He charged commanders to ensure the readiness of personnel, aircraft and weapon systems, urging them to fight smartly, retain initiative and deliver results.
The CAS also declared a policy of “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare,” linking personnel motivation to operational effectiveness. He assured that headquarters would prioritise prompt payment of allowances, improved medical support for personnel and their families, and provision of essential working tools.
He encouraged personnel to speak openly about welfare and operational challenges, assuring them of a structured approach to addressing concerns. Aneke added that future operations would emphasise proactive safety culture and efficient resource utilisation.
During the visit, the CAS toured and inspected units and facilities, and commissioned selected building projects aimed at improving training infrastructure and personnel welfare, expressing confidence that the NAF would remain agile, capable and respected in fulfilling its constitutional mandate.