Meet Colonel Gerhard Kahtz, a German officer, was indeed appointed as the first Chief of the Air Staff for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in 1963. Following Nigeria’s independence, Kahtz was instrumental in establishing the foundation for the NAF by organizing its initial structure, training systems, and operational framework. His leadership marked a significant milestone in developing Nigeria’s aerial defense capabilities, as he helped lay down the NAF’s foundational strategies and trained its first officers. This period under Kahtz’s guidance played a crucial role in shaping the early years of the Nigerian Air Force.
Colonel Gerhard Kahtz’s legacy in Nigeria is defined by his pivotal role in establishing the Nigerian Air Force, transforming it from concept to an operational branch of the military with a clear structure, training protocols, and strategic framework. Tasked with building Nigeria’s aerial defense capability shortly after independence, Kahtz set the foundation for an air force that could protect the country’s sovereignty and support its military operations. His focus on training, discipline, and operational readiness created a legacy of professionalism that inspired generations of Nigerian air personnel.
Replicating this success in present times would involve re-emphasizing Kahtz’s principles of structured training, disciplined leadership, and strategic foresight. By investing in modernized training facilities, collaborating with experienced international advisors, and fostering a culture of innovation, Nigeria could ensure that its air force remains prepared to meet contemporary security challenges and contributes effectively to regional stability.
2. Colonel Wolfgang Thimmig (1965–1966) – German
The second Commander of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) was Colonel W Timming. He took over from Colonel Kahtz on 23 November, 1965. Born on 4 October, 1912, Colonel Timming, like his predecessor, was also a veteran of the Second World War. He came to Nigeria as part of the GAF Assistance Group (GAFAG) and helped to lay the foundation of the NAF under Colonel Kahtz. He continued where Kahtz stopped, until 18 January 1966 when the GAFAG withdrew from Nigeria. Although, he headed the NAF for barely 3 months, as part of the GAFAG, his role in the formation and nurturing of the NAF is indelible.
3. Brigadier George T. Kurubo (1966–1967)
George Tamunoiyowuna Kurubo (27 July 1934 – 2000) was Nigerian Air Force’s Chief of the Air Staff from 1966 to 1967. Brigadier George T Kurubo was the third Commander of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the first indigenous to hold the post. He was married, had four children, visited the Government School in Bonny.
From 1948 to 1953, Kurubo attended Government College in Umuahia, then Regular Officers’ Training School in Accra in 1953, then Officer Cadets Training School, Eaton Hall, Cheshire in 1954. From 1954 to 1955, he attended Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, then the Young Air Infantry Officers’ School in 1956, then Senior Air Infantry Officers’ School in 1961, and finally Command and Staff College, Quetta, Pakistan in 1964.
Kurubo was promoted second lieutenant and then platoon commander in 1956. Between 1957 and 1965, her served in various command positions. In 1964, he moved from Lt-Col in the Army to the newly formed Nigerian Air Force in 1964. In January 1966, he became the first indigenous Air Force Chief.
An Easterner, he did not go with the Igbo-led secession because he was from Rivers State which was carved out of the Eastern Region at the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War. Serving as the Eastern commander of logistics, Kurubo defected from Biafra to the Federal Government.
From January–July 1966, Kurubo served as a member of the Supreme Military Council, and as a member of the Federal Executive Council.
On 12 August 1967, he was appointed Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Soviet Union, where he stayed until 1973. In 1970, he was promoted to Brigadier General.
From December 28, 1974 until 1975, Kurubo served as Nigeria’s ambassador to Iran,[1] also accredited to Ankara.
On August 19, 1975, Kurubo retired from the military.
In 1977, he served as chairman of the Bonny Local Government Area’s Management Committee. Then, from 1977 to 1978, he was a member of the Constituent Assembly of the Second Nigerian Republic.
4. Colonel Shittu A. Alao (1967–1969)
Shittu Alao (born 1937 – 15 October 1969) was Nigerian Air Force’s Chief of the Air Staff from 1967 to 1969. Colonel Shittu was the fourth Commander of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the second indigenous officer to hold the post.
Death
He died on October 15, 1969, in an air crash at Uzebba, about 50 miles northwest of Benin. He was aged 32 and he was alone in the plane. Two days later, in Lagos, he was buried with full military honours.
Emmanuel E Ikwue was announced as his replacement on December 18, 1969.
5. Brigadier Emmanuel E. Ikwue (1969–1975)
Brigadier Emmanuel Ebije Ikwue was born on 6th June 1940 in Otukpo, Benue State. He attended the Methodist Central School Otukpo after which he proceeded to the Nigerian Military School from 1954 to 1958. He enlisted into the Nigerian Army and was sent for training as a member of Course 11, Regular Officers Special Training School Teshie, Accra, Ghana (1958 – 1959) (now Ghana Military Academy).
Thereafter he attended the Mons Officer Cadet School, Aldershot England and Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst (1959).
He was commissioned in 1961 and posted to 1st Battalion Enugu. In 1962 he served in a peacekeeping operation in the Congo under the auspices of the United Nations. In 1963, he was appointed Staff Captain (A) to Late Brigadier Maimalari, the then Commander of 2 Brigade NA. It was while serving in this capacity that he was seconded to the NAF. On secondment to the NAF, Brigadier Ikwue underwent an air force indoctrination and orientation training in Germany between 1963 and 1964.
On return from Germany, he was appointed as Senior Air Officer Administration at HQ NAF, Lagos in 1965 with a German as his adviser. It was in this capacity that he established the Service numbering for NAF officers. In 1965, Brigadier Ikwue was appointed Nigeria’s Military Attaché to Germany by Late Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa. In Germany, he was responsible for all military matters in all the Nigerian Embassies in Eu155 rope. In 1968, he was appointed the Doyen, head of Military Attaché Referat (Corps) in Germany. Thus he became the first African and first non-NATO General to head the Corp which had Military Attachés from 35 countries. In 1969, Brigadier Ikwue was recalled and appointed the fifth commander of the NAF and member of the Supreme Military and Federal Executive Councils. He was the first officer to be officially designated as the Chief of the Air Staff. He held this appointment until his retirement in 1975.
Reflecting on his achievements while in office, Brigadier Ikwue stated that he ensured that all NAF training was conducted abroad in order to consolidate the initial efforts of the Germans. He also stated that he emphasised excellence in the training of NAF aircrew, thus NAF pilots were trained mainly in Russia and the United States of America. The NAF C-130 aircraft were negotiated for and ordered during his administration. Training remained his utmost priority throughout his tenure.
In recognition of these services to the nation he was awarded the Independence Medal, the Congo Medal and the Long Service and Good Conduct Medals. The NAF on its part, recognised his services with the award of the Distinguished Service Medal and Distinguished Flying Star. Brigadier Ikwue on retirement went into quarrying. He was also at one time the Chairman, Nigerian Bank for Commerce and Industry. He is at present, the Chairman, Board of Directors, Ashaka Cement Plc. He also acquired a Bachelor’s degree in theology on retirement.
6. Air Vice Marshal John Nmadu Yisa-Doko (1975–1980)
Air Vice Marshal John Nmadu Yisa-Doko played a significant role in evaluating the French-made Mirage fighter jet in 1970, after Nigeria’s attempts to acquire F-5 Tigers failed. As a pilot and the first Nigerian Air Force’s Chief of the Air Staff, serving from 1975 to 1980, Yisa-Doko was instrumental in assessing the Mirage’s capabilities and potential.
Born on February 13, 1942, in Doko, Niger State, Nigeria, Yisa-Doko joined the Nigerian Air Force as a cadet in 1962 and was among the first batch of pilots recruited to serve in the newly formed Air Force. He underwent pilot training in Ethiopia from 1962 to 1964 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1964.
During his tenure as Chief of the Air Staff, Yisa-Doko initiated several significant developments, including the establishment of primary schools in all major NAF formations, training schools for NAF primary trade specialties, and operational bases at Makurdi and Kainji. He also founded the NAF Regiment, NAF Junior Command and Staff School, and the Air Faculty at the Command and Staff College, Jaji.
Yisa-Doko’s achievements and contributions to the Nigerian Air Force are a testament to his dedication and leadership. He was honored with several awards, including the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) and the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR).
7. Air Vice Marshal Abdullahi Dominic Bello (1980–1983)
Air Vice-Marshal Abdullahi Dominic Bello took over the leadership of the NAF as the seventh Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) on 15 of April 1980. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as an officer cadet in October 1963.
He was the first NAF Officer to attend the prestigious Air War College in the United States. He was born in Jimeta, Yola on 14 December, 1942. During his tenure as the CAS, he introduced the Benevolent Welfare Fund to alleviate the sufferings of bereaved families of deceased NAF personnel.
He also introduced the Aircrew Insurance Programme and established the NAF Military School, Jos and Air Force Secondary School, Ikeja, all in 1981.
8. Air Marshal Ibrahim Mahmud Alfa (1984–1990)
Ibrahim Mahmud Alfa (14 August 1946 – 16 March 2000) was an air marshal in the Nigerian Air Force. He previously served as Military administrator of Kaduna State and Chief of Air Staff for the Nigerian Air Force. He died on 16 March 2000.
Born in Garkida, Adamawa State, he started his educational career at the Central Primary School, Jimeta, Yola, in 1948 and went on to complete his primary and secondary school education in 1960 at Yola Middle School, later known as the Provincial Secondary School. Soon after his graduation, he enrolled for his Higher School Certificate (HSC) course in Barewa College, Zaria, which he completed in 1962.
Ibrahim Alfa was one of the pioneering sets of officer cadets who enlisted into the Nigeria Air force in June 1963. On 28 August 1963, he was flown, along with a team of 83 other Nigerians, to Uetersen, Germany, for Basic and Advance Military Training. He was in Germany until 21 June 1966, when he was recalled home with the team and commissioned into the Nigerian Air Force with the rank of second lieutenant. At the outbreak of the Civil War, he commanded the NAF Detachment in Benin City.
In 1967, Alfa attended the Conversion Course on MIG 15 and 17 in USSR. He was promoted to the rank of captain in 1969. In 1970 he was appointed the Commanding Officer, Nigerian Air force (NAF) Flying Training Wing, Kano.
In 1972 he was promoted to the rank of Major. From December 1972 to August 1973, Ibrahim Alfa enrolled for the T-38 Instructor Pilot course at Lockheed and Randolph Air Force Base, in the United States. In 1973 he was appointed officer Commanding 64 Fighter Squadron, Kano, Nigeria.
In November 1974 he attended a conversion course on MiG 21 followed by a back seat check in USSR. In 1975 he was promoted Wing Commander. He was appointed a member of the Supreme Military Council between 1976 and 1978 as one of its younger members with the rank of Wing Commander. During this period, he attended the Advanced Staff College, l, England. In 1978 Alfa was promoted to the rank of Group-Captain and he was also appointed as the Military Administrator of Kaduna State by the then Head of State, General Olusegun Obasanjo, where he also took charge as Commander, Ground Training Group in Kaduna.
In June 1980, he enrolled at the Air War College in Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery, USA. On his return from the Air War College in 1981, Ibrahim Alfa was appointed the Air Officer Operations (AOO), with the rank of Air Commodore. In 1982, he attended the International Defence Management Course, Lagos, Nigeria. In 1983 Alfa was promoted to the rank of Air Vice Marshal.
On 1 January 1984, he was appointed the eighth Chief of Air Staff by General Muhammadu Buhari’s regime. After General Ibrahim Babangida took power in August 1985, he retained Alfa as Chief of Air Staff. On 1 October 1987, Ibrahim Mahmud Alfa was promoted to the rank of Air Marshal, the first Nigerian Air force officer ever to attain the rank.
Alfa retired from the Nigerian air force as the Chief of Air Staff in 1990.
Ibrahim Mahmud Alfa also served as a member of the supreme military council from 1984 to 1985, the Armed Forces Ruling Council (AFRC) 1985-90 as well as the chairman of the National Transition Committee in 1990.
In July 1978, Alfa was appointed military Administrator (position now called Governor) of Kaduna State, a position he held until October 1979.
Alfa was appointed the eighth Chief of Air Staff, Nigerian Air Force, under General Muhammadu Buhari’s regime on 1 January 1984. He was retained as Chief of Air Staff during General Ibrahim Babangida’s administration until 1990.
Ibrahim Alfa was married to Laraba, they had three sons and one daughter together.
Air Marshal Alfa (Rtd.) received several awards and medals. In alphabetical order they include:
– Defence Service Medal (DSM) Defence Service Medal (Nigeria)
– Distinguished Flying Star (DFS)
– Distinguished Service Medals (DSM)
– General Service Medal (GSM) General Service Medal (Nigeria)
– Member of the Federal Republic (MFR)
– National Service Medal (NSM) National Service Medal (Nigeria)
9. Air Vice Marshal Nuraini Yussuff (1990–1992)
Air Marshal Nuraini Oladimeji Omotosho Yussuff was born in Lagos on 10 June, 1942. He began his military career in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on 7 August 1963 as an officer Cadet. Subsequently, he was sent to Germany where he undertook military training with the German Air Force (GAF). He was commissioned a Second Lieutenant on 7 November, 1966. Air Marshal Yussuff was appointed as the ninth Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) on 29 December, 1989. He retired from military service in January 1992.
10. Air Marshal Akin Dada (1992)
Air Marshal Akin Dada was born in Lagos on 7 June 1943. He hails from Ipoti-Ekiti in Ijero Local Government of Ekiti State. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on 1 July, 1964. He then proceeded to India where he trained on various aircraft types. On his return, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant on 29 October, 1966. Air Marshal Akin Dada held various senior and command positions in the NAF before his appointment as the CAS on 31 January, 1992. He retired from the military service in 1993.
The Eleventh Chief of the Air Staff of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Vice Marshal Femi John Femi, was born on 30 December 1945 in Egbeda-Kabba, Kogi State. He enlisted into the NAF as an officer cadet on 1 July, 1965. He proceeded to Germany for his pilot training after his basic military training. He qualified as an helicopter pilot in March, 1967 and was commissioned Second Lieutenant on his return to Nigeria on 1 June 1967. He was appointed Chief of Air Staff (CAS) of the NAF on 17 September, 1993. He retired from military service in 1996.
12. Air Marshal Nsikak-Abasi Eduok (1996–1999)
The twelfth Chief of the air Staff (CAS) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) was Air Marshal Nsikak-Abasi Essien Eduok. He was born on 11 July, 1947 at Mbak in Akwa Ibom State. He enlisted into the NAF as a potential pilot on 1 August 1968. Air Marshal Eduok had his initial military training at the Nigerian Defence Academy after which he went for primary flying training in 1970. He was appointed as the CAS on 27 August, 1993, but the appointment was reversed a week later by the then military government. He was redeployed as Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command (AOC TAC) and also appointed a member of the Provisional Ruling Council (PRC). On 20 March, 1995, he was appointed a member of the Federal Executive Council as Honourable Minister for Aviation. He was in this position till he was finally reappointment as the CAS on 30 March, 1996.
13. Air Marshal Isaac Mohammed Alfa (1999–2001)
Air Marshal Isaac Mohammed Alfa popularly known as “Air Warrior” in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) circles was born on 15 September, 1950 at Inye in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1969 as a member of Regular Combatant Course 6. He was commissioned Second Lieutenant in 1971 and rose through the officer ranks to the rank of Air Marshal in 1999. Air Marshal Alfa had a wealth of flying, staff and command experience, which thoroughly prepared him for his eventful tenure as CAS. He was appointed CAS in 1999 and he retired in 2001.
14. Air Marshal Jonah Domfa Wuyep (2001–2006)
Air Marshal Jonah Domfa Wuyep became the fourteenth Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on 24 April, 2001. He was born at Pil-Gani in Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State on 23 November, 1948. He was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1970 and was commissioned into the NAF as a Second Lieutenant in April, 1973. He was appointed as the CAS in April, 2001 and was promoted to the rank of an Air Marshal on 1 October, 2001.
15. Air Marshal Paul Dike (2006–2008)
Air Chief Marshal Paul Dike hails from Issele-Uku in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State. He joined the Nigerian Defence Academy on 22 January 1973 as an officer cadet. He was granted a Regular Combatant commission into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as Pilot Officer on 21 June, 1975. He was the Nigerian Air Force’s Chief of the Air Staff from 2006 to 2008. In August 2008, he was appointed the Chief of the Defence Staff. Prior to his appointment as Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Dike was Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command. He was appointed the Commander of the Presidential Air Fleet in 1997 and became the Chief of the Air Staff in 2006.
16. Air Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin (2008–2010)
Air Chief Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin was born on 19 January, 1955 at Ipetu-Ijesa in Ori-Ade Local Government Area of Osun State. Air Marshal Petinrin enlisted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in 1974 as a member of Regular Course 16 and was commissioned Pilot Officer on 3 January, 1977. He was the Nigerian Air Force’s Chief of the Air Staff from 2008 to 2010. He was appointed Chief of the Defence Staff and served from 2010 to 2012.
17. Air Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar (2010–2012)
Air Marshal MD Umar was born on 20 June, 1955 in Kano Municipal Local Government Area of Kano State. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in July, 1976 as a member of Short Service Course 12. Prior to his appointment on 19 September, 2010 as the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), he was the Air Officer Commanding Training Command (AOC TC). He was the 17th Chief of the Air Staff who served from 19 September, 2010 to 3 October, 2012.
18. Air Marshal Alex Sabundu Badeh (2012–2014)
Air Chief Marshal Alex Sabundu Badeh was born on 7 November, 1957 in Vimtim, a little town in Mubi Local Government Area of Adamawa State. He was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of 21 Regular Course on 3 January, 1977 and was commissioned a Pilot Officer on 3 July, 1979. Air Chief Marshal Badeh was the 18th Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) and the 15th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
19. Air Marshal Adesola Nunayon Amosu (2014–2015)
Air Marshal Adesola Nunayon Amosu was born on 1 August, 1958 in Badagry, Lagos State, Nigeria. He was enlisted into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) through the Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of 25 Regular Course on 3 January, 1979. He was commissioned as a Pilot Officer on 3 July, 1981. Prior to his appointment on 16 January, 2014 as the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), he was the Director of Operations and Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command (AOC TAC). He was the 19th Chief of Air Staff who served from 2014 to 2015.
20. Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar (2015–2021)
Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar was born on 8 April 1960 at Azare in Bauchi State, Nigeria. He joined the Nigerian Air Force as a member of the Cadet Military Training Course (CMTC 5) in November 1979 and was commissioned pilot officer on 15 May 1982. He progressed steadily through the ranks and was promoted to the rank of Air Marshal on 13 August 15. He was the 20th Chief of Air Staff who served from 2015 to 26th January 2021.
21. Air Marshal Isiaka Oladayo Amao (2021–2023)
Air Marshal Oladayo Isiaka Amao born on on 14 September 1965 in Enugu and is an indigene of Oshogbo Local Government Area in the State of Osun, South West Nigeria. He joined the Armed Forces of Nigeria as a Cadet of the Nigerian Defence Academy Regular Course 35 in January 1984. He progressed steadily through the ranks. He was the 21th Chief of Air Staff who served from 26 January 2021 to 19th June 2023.
22. Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar (2023–2025)
Abubakar replaced Air Vice Marshal Ishiaka Amao, who was appointed as the former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2021.
Here is the profile of Air Vice Marshal Abubakar below.
Air Vice Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar was born on 11 September 1970. He hails from Shanono Local Government Area in Kano State. He enlisted into the NAF as a member of NDA RC 39 and commissioned Pilot Offr on September 19, 1992.
The Air Officer Commanding, Logistics Command has attended several courses and acquired notable qualifications, which include:
Bachelor of Science Degree from the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna.
Ab initio and Basic Flying Training Courses at the 301 Flying Training School Kaduna.
Basic and Advance Airborne Courses at Nigerian Army Infantry Center and School Jaji.
Company Amphibious Operations Course at Nigerian Army Infantry Center and School in Calabar.
Junior and Senior Command and Staff Courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College Jaji and
National Defence Course at the Nasser Higher Military Academy, Cairo – Egypt.
Master’s Degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from ABU Zaria.
Previous appointments held by Air Vice Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar include:
Admin Officer 16 Engineering Wing, 1 Engineering Group NAF Makurdi.
Officer Commanding Admin Services Flight/ Group Public Relations Officer, 97 Special Operations Group NAF Port Harcourt.
Officer Commanding Yellow Squadron – Air Force Military School Jos.
Officer Commanding ‘B’ Squadron (Do 228) – 81 Air Maritime Group NAF Benin.
Team Leader MILOB Team Site 615 Mahagi (Ituri Brigade) MONUC.
Aviation Planning Officer, MONUC Air Operations Kinshasa, DRC.
Commanding Officer Base Services Wing 81 Air Maritime Group Nigerian Air force Benin.
Operations Officer Operational Conversion Unit 88 Military Airlift group Nigerian air Force Lagos.
Operations Officer 88 Military Airlift Group Ikeja Lagos. Commanding Officer 21 Wing 88 Military Airlift Group Lagos.
Group Safety Officer 88 Military Airlift Group Ikeja Lagos.
Fleet operation officer – 011Presidential Air Fleet.
Commander 011 Presidential Air Fleet.
Chief of Staff, Mobility Command.
Director of Policy, HQ NAF and lastly
Director of Operations, HQ NAF
Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command.
Currently the Chief of Standards and Operations, HQ NAF.
The most senior officer Abubakar has been honoured with several awards and decorations, which include:
Distinguished Service Star.
Passed Staff Course (psc)
Fellow Defence College
Masters in International Affairs.
Member National Institute of Management.
Member Chartered Institute of Public Management.
Member Nigerian Institute of Safety Professionals.
Air Vice Marshal HB Abubakar is happily married with children and in his leisure time, the senior officer enjoys flying airplanes, reading, reflecting and keeping fit.
23. Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke (2025-Present)
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff on October 24, 2025, following the retirement of Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar.
The appointment has been described as the beginning of a new era for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) — one characterised by intellectual depth, operational precision, and renewed commitment to strengthening national security and airpower excellence.
According to a statement issued by the Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Aneke was born on 20 February 1972 in Makurdi, Benue State, and hails from Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, Southeast Nigeria.
The son of Air Warrant Officer (Rtd) Sylvester and Mrs. Ngozi Aneke, he began his early education at Army Children School, New Cantonment ‘A’, Kaduna (1976–1982) and later attended Government College, Kaduna (1982–1987), where he developed the discipline and leadership traits that have guided his distinguished career.
He was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a member of the 40th Regular Combatant Course and was commissioned into the Nigerian Air Force as a Pilot Officer on 10 September 1993, marking the beginning of a brilliant and meritorious military journey.
Education and Academic Achievements
Air Vice Marshal Aneke is a highly accomplished scholar and strategic thinker. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from the University of Calabar, and two Master’s Degrees — one in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and another in Political Economy and Development Studies from the University of Abuja.
He also holds a Professional Certificate in Aviation Safety Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida, USA, and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), reflecting his dedication to continuous learning and strategic leadership.
Military Training and Professional Courses
Air Vice Marshal Aneke has attended several prestigious military institutions both in Nigeria and abroad. He completed the Junior and Senior Staff Courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, and later earned a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the United States Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama.
His military training and exposure have equipped him with the expertise to manage complex air operations and formulate strategic defence policies essential for modern warfare.
Appointments and Command Experience
Over the course of his distinguished career, Air Vice Marshal Aneke has held several command, instructional, and staff appointments, which shaped his operational and leadership acumen.
These include;
Director of Policy, Nigerian Air Force Headquarters
Director of Safety, Nigerian Air Force Headquarters
Deputy Director of Operations, Nigerian Air Force Headquarters
Command Operations Officer, Tactical Air Command
Deputy Commandant, Nigerian Defence Academy
Until his appointment as Chief of the Air Staff, he served as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, Yenagoa, where he enhanced air mobility, strengthened joint force integration, and improved NAF’s strategic response in multi-domain operations.
Operational Experience
An accomplished pilot with over 4,359 flying hours, Air Vice Marshal Aneke is type-rated on several aircraft including the Air Beetle 18, Dornier 228, Citation 500, Falcon 900, Gulfstream V, Gulfstream 550, and Hawker 4000.
His operational experience spans both domestic and international theatres — from Operation Restore Hope in the Niger Delta to United Nations peacekeeping operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC), where he served as Chief of Air Operations, Kindu Region.
Air Vice Marshal Aneke has made significant contributions to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, enhancing the Nigerian Air Force’s counter-insurgency and air support capabilities.
Awards and Honours
In recognition of his outstanding service and professionalism, Air Vice Marshal Aneke has received several medals and honours, including;
Grand Service Star (GSS)
Distinguished Service Star (DSS)
General Service Medal (GSM)
Forces Service Star (FSS)
Meritorious Service Star (MSS)
Passed Staff Course (psc)
Fellow of the Defence College (fdc)
Member, International Affairs and Diplomacy (MIAD)
He is also a member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the International Institute of Professional Security (IIPS).
Leadership and Vision
Air Vice Marshal Aneke is widely regarded as a refined officer, visionary leader, and accomplished aviator whose calm disposition, strategic foresight, and results-driven approach have earned him respect within and beyond the Armed Forces.
As he assumes office as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke brings a wealth of experience and strategic depth that are expected to reposition the Nigerian Air Force for greater operational efficiency in combating terrorism, insurgency, and other emerging security challenges.
Under his leadership, the Nigerian Air Force is set to strengthen airpower projection, deepen intelligence-led operations, and drive innovation in defence technology and human capacity development, in line with the renewed vision of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Federal Government on Monday raised fresh concerns over the growing burden of foodborne diseases in Nigeria, revealing that unsafe food causes more than 53,000 deaths and nearly 50 million illnesses annually across the country.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, disclosed this in Abuja during a ministerial press briefing to commemorate the 2026 World Food Safety Day, themed “From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere.”
Salako described food safety as a critical national development and health security issue, warning that the true cost of unsafe food extended beyond sickness and death to the loss of human capital, particularly among children.
According to him, Nigeria loses an estimated 4.26 million years of healthy life annually to foodborne diseases through illness, disability and premature death.
“Nigeria records nearly 50 million foodborne illnesses every year, and unsafe food causes more than 53,000 deaths annually in our country.
“Together, these illnesses and deaths result in a staggering 4.26 million years of healthy life lost to illness, disability or early death,” the minister said.
He noted that children under five account for more than 80 per cent of the country’s foodborne disease burden.
“Most of this burden falls heavily on children under five, who account for more than 80 per cent of all foodborne disease burden in Nigeria.
“The true cost of unsafe food in Nigeria is not only measured in sickness and death, but also in the lost cognitive, physical and developmental potential of our children,” Salako added.
The minister’s remarks came on the heels of newly released estimates by the World Health Organisation showing that unsafe food causes about 866 million illnesses and 1.5 million deaths globally each year, with Africa bearing the highest per-capita burden.
According to Salako, diarrhoeal diseases remained the leading cause of foodborne illnesses in Nigeria, with more than 40 million cases linked to pathogens such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Campylobacter, Shigella and rotavirus.
“Over 40 million diarrhoeal illnesses in Nigeria are linked to foodborne pathogens. These infections continue to be a major cause of hospitalisation, malnutrition and mortality among our youngest citizens,” he said.
He also warned of increasing exposure to chemical contaminants.
“Chemical hazards are also emerging as a serious concern, with lead exposure responsible for tens of thousands of healthy lives lost through contaminated grains, spices and water sources. These numbers underscore the urgency of strengthening food safety systems across the entire value chain,” he stated.
Despite the challenges, Salako said Nigeria had made notable progress in building a stronger food safety system.
He said the country’s 2023 Joint External Evaluation recorded measurable improvements across all food safety indicators, while Nigeria’s 2025 State Party Annual Report score surpassed the World Health Organisation target for low- and middle-income countries.
“Nigeria is now one of the leading countries in the region in establishing functional systems for detecting, reporting and responding to foodborne disease events,” he said.
The minister, however, stressed that the latest figures should serve as a wake-up call.
“The new WHO estimates are a call to action. We must intensify surveillance for heavy metals and chemical contaminants. We must improve food safety practices in traditional and informal markets where most Nigerians buy their food.
“We must strengthen hygiene, water and sanitation infrastructure and ensure food business operators comply with national standards,” he said.
Salako also linked food safety to the country’s growing burden of non-communicable diseases, including hypertension, stroke, diabetes and obesity.
“Food safety is not only about preventing infections; it is also about ensuring that the food we eat does not contribute to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases,” he said.
He disclosed that Nigeria had developed National Guidelines for Sodium Reduction, while the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control had finalised draft sodium reduction regulations aimed at reducing salt levels in processed foods.
According to him, the country was also implementing industrial trans-fat elimination regulations and strengthening efforts to improve the sugar-sweetened beverage tax and front-of-pack food labelling systems to encourage healthier food choices.
Salako urged food manufacturers, regulators, researchers and consumers to support efforts aimed at ensuring safer and healthier food for Nigerians.
“Food safety is everyone’s business. It saves lives, strengthens our economy and protects our children. These numbers show that food safety is not optional; it is a national health security priority,” he said.
The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, said strengthening food safety systems remained critical to reducing the country’s burden of foodborne diseases.
Represented at the event by the Director of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Directorate, Eva Edwards, Adeyeye described food safety as a public health, socioeconomic and development imperative.
“The theme for the 2026 World Food Safety Day, ‘From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere,’ reminds us that food safety is not merely a technical issue; it is a public health, socioeconomic and development imperative. Behind every statistic on foodborne disease is a child, a family, a community or a business affected by preventable illness and loss,” she said.
The NAFDAC boss said the agency remained committed to reducing foodborne diseases through stronger regulation, surveillance and stakeholder engagement.
“At NAFDAC, we remain firmly committed to contributing to reducing the burden of foodborne disease through science-based regulation, effective surveillance, strengthened food control systems and robust stakeholder engagement,” she said.
She added, “Our efforts continue to focus on ensuring that foods manufactured, imported, exported, distributed, advertised, sold and consumed in Nigeria meet acceptable standards of safety and quality.”
Adeyeye stressed that safe food was central to achieving the country’s nutrition and health goals.
“We recognise World Food Safety Day as an added opportunity to situate food safety as a significant issue of public health concern, especially in the light of safe, wholesome food being important for boosting immunity and improving the body’s natural defence in fighting diseases.
“Where food is unsafe, our nutritional goals cannot be achieved,” she said.
The NAFDAC Director-General further noted that addressing food safety challenges would require stronger collaboration among government agencies, industry players, researchers, development partners and consumers.
“The challenge before us is significant, but so too is our collective capacity to address it through evidence-based policies, effective regulation, responsible industry practices and sustained public awareness,” she said.
Adeyeye reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening food safety systems nationwide.
“At NAFDAC, we remain resolute in our unwavering commitment to playing our role in strengthening the national food safety system, upholding standards and regulations, and promoting best practices within industry and across society to assure a safe food supply,” Adeyeye said.
Meanwhile, the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa called for stronger regulatory measures to address the growing burden of diet-related diseases in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday to commemorate the 2026 World Food Safety Day, CAPPA warned that millions of Nigerians were increasingly exposed to health risks associated with excessive consumption of sugar, salt, unhealthy fats and ultra-processed foods.
The organisation argued that food safety should extend beyond concerns about contamination and foodborne diseases to include protection against products that contribute to non-communicable diseases.
CAPPA Executive Director, Oluwafemi Akinbode, said, “Food safety is not only about preventing food poisoning. It is also about ensuring that the foods and drinks available to Nigerians do not slowly undermine their health and well-being.”
He warned that weak regulatory safeguards and aggressive marketing of unhealthy products were contributing to rising cases of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, stroke, kidney disease and certain cancers.
According to him, diet-related diseases were placing a growing burden on families, the healthcare system and the economy.
“Public health policies must be guided by science and the public interest, not by industries whose profitability depends on unhealthy consumption patterns,” Akinbode stated.
CAPPA welcomed the recent passage by the Senate of a bill seeking to strengthen Nigeria’s Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Tax regime, describing it as a critical intervention in efforts to reduce excessive sugar consumption and curb non-communicable diseases.
The organisation also urged the Federal Government to adopt national sodium reduction targets, implement Front-of-Pack Warning Labelling on packaged foods and beverages, and strengthen restrictions on the marketing of unhealthy foods to children.
“Truly, safe food should not only be free from contamination but should also protect consumers from preventable diseases and support long-term wellbeing,” he added.
World Food Safety Day is observed annually to raise awareness and inspire action to prevent, detect and manage food-related risks. The 2026 edition marks the eighth global observance of the event.
While food safety discussions have traditionally focused on microbial contamination and foodborne disease outbreaks, public health experts are increasingly drawing attention to the role of unhealthy diets in driving non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers.
In Nigeria, authorities have intensified efforts to strengthen food safety governance through the National Food Safety Management Committee, the National Integrated Guidelines for Foodborne Disease Surveillance and Response, sodium reduction initiatives, industrial trans-fat elimination regulations and improved food surveillance systems.
However, health advocates continue to push for stronger nutrition-focused policies, including enhanced sugar-sweetened beverage taxes, front-of-pack warning labels and tighter restrictions on the marketing of unhealthy foods to children.
As dawn breaks over Okomu National Park in Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State, an exhausted wildlife caretaker prepares milk formula for Agbaibor, a month-old orphaned forest elephant rescued after wandering out of the rainforest alone.
“The baby elephant has to take two litres of this per meal,” said Joshua Aribasoye, one of those responsible for feeding and monitoring the calf around the clock in a makeshift pen at a ranger outpost inside the park in southern Edo.
Forest elephants, smaller and more elusive than their savannah cousins, are endangered and their population has collapsed in recent decades largely because of habitat loss and poaching.
Agbaibor—named after the ranger who helped rescue him—was found near a palm oil plantation bordering the protected forest late last year after being separated from the herd.
Rangers and conservationists tried to reunite the calf with its family by taking it back into the forest, but it soon wandered out again.
Fearing it would die alone or be attacked, park authorities and conservation group African Nature Investors (ANI) launched an emergency effort to nurse the animal, flying in elephant rehabilitation specialists from Zambia and assigning caretakers to raise him.
It has become a costly operation. ANI spends between four and five million naira (about 3,600) a month on his care, including 77 kilograms of milk powder, alongside oats and nutritional supplements.
Conservationists expect the rehabilitation process to take another three to five years. They are building a new enclosure deeper inside the park, within elephant habitat, where the calf will gradually be exposed to the sounds and movements of wild herds before an eventual reintroduction.
“The calf will be cared for there… until it is integrated into a group,” said ANI project manager Peter Abanyam.
200 remain
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists forest elephants as critically endangered, with conservationists estimating only around 200 remain in the country.
Roughly 40 are believed to live in and around Okomu—one of Nigeria’s last remaining rainforest ecosystems, covering about 24,000 hectares.
“Okomu is critical for conservation in Nigeria,” said Abanyam.
“In a small ecosystem like this, housing 40 elephants is a huge number, and it needs to be protected at all costs.”
But pressure on the forest is intensifying.
Logging, poaching, farming and expanding human settlements have fragmented large parts of the reserve, shrinking elephant corridors and increasing contact between wildlife and nearby communities.
Godstime Christopher, 26, once helped transport illegally logged timber out of the forest before being recruited as a ranger by ANI.
Today, he works with the organisation’s biomonitoring team, using camera traps to track elephant movements and identify poachers.
“When I became a ranger, I thought I would use that to exploit logging,” he admitted. “But the training changed our mentality.”
‘Preserve what we have’
Conservation groups say engaging local communities is essential if endangered wildlife is to survive in one of Africa’s fastest-growing countries, where economic hardship often drives people deeper into protected forests in search of land, timber or bushmeat.
While the ranger programme appears to have helped drive down poaching in the area, hunting for other species still disturbs the elephants and degrades their habitat, Christopher warned.
