Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice-Marshal Sunday Aneke, has told the Senate he intends to pursue a professional, aggressive and offensive air campaign aimed at keeping adversaries on the run and denying them time to plan attacks.
Aneke outlined a vision for a combat ready Nigerian Air Force that is operationally versatile, disciplined and lethal in the professional sense, able to respond swiftly, strike decisively and apply timely intelligence across the full spectrum of operations.
He said the force will place heavy emphasis on unmanned aerial systems and drones to enhance surveillance and reduce risks to personnel.
The nominee said the Air Force will prioritise rigorous training, sound doctrine, robust logistics, a strong safety culture and investment in research and innovation to build air mindedness at all ranks.
He also promised cooperation with the Army and Navy to ensure coordinated, joint operations.
Aneka warned that aviation is an expensive enterprise and urged senators to allow the service to use allocated funds efficiently to secure maximum value.
He highlighted the high cost of munitions, noting that some missiles cost at least $100,000 and are being expended regularly in theatre operations.
On operational readiness, Aneke confirmed that Super Tucano aircraft and other frontline platforms are active over the North-East and North-West.
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He said young aircrew conduct nightly missions in hazardous conditions, expending costly munitions to protect civilians, and stressed that many manned tasks can be complemented or enhanced by drones to reduce personnel risk.
The nominee described the Air Force’s role as more than a professional duty, calling it a solemn trust between the service and the Nigerian people.
He stressed that every policy and mission will be guided with the aim of safeguarding lives, liberties and national stability.
Aneke also recalled long experience working with the Navy, including early service with the maritime group in Benin, and pledged to encourage similar inter-service cooperation among subordinates if confirmed.
He concluded by reiterating the Air Force’s commitment to deliver value for money and to ensure that resources provided by the government are applied to maintain national security and operational effectiveness.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
