…Scholar, Strategist, and Veteran Pilot Set to Lead NAF in New Era
Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Sunday Kelvin Aneke has been appointed as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), bringing a formidable background of intellectual rigour, strategic policy-making, and extensive operational experience to the leadership of the service.
His appointment is seen as marking a new chapter for the NAF, one focused on enhancing national security through precision airpower and adaptive strategy.
Born on February 20, 1972, in Makurdi, Benue State, AVM Aneke hails from Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State. His connection to the Air Force is deep-rooted; he is the son of Air Warrant Officer (Rtd) Sylvester Aneke.
A distinguished scholar, the new Air Chief holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management, and two Master’s degrees in International Affairs and Diplomacy, and Political Economy and Development Studies. He also holds a Professional Certificate in Aviation Safety Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the USA and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
AVM Aneke was commissioned into the NAF as a Pilot Officer on September 10, 1993, as a member of the 40th Regular Combatant Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy. His military education is equally extensive, having completed Junior and Senior Staff Courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, and earning a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the prestigious United States Air War College.
An accomplished pilot, AVM Aneke has logged over 4,359 flying hours and is type-rated on multiple aircraft, including the Dornier 228, Gulfstream V, and Hawker 4000.
His operational experience spans both domestic and international theatres, from counter-insurgency operations and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions across Nigeria to serving as Chief of Air Operations for the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC).
Throughout his career, AVM Aneke has held numerous key appointments, including Director of Policy and Director of Safety at NAF Headquarters, Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, and, most recently, Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, in Yenagoa.
As he assumes command, AVM Aneke is expected to leverage his wealth of experience to steer the NAF towards “greater efficiency in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and emerging security threats.” His leadership is anticipated to focus on strengthening airpower projection, deepening intelligence-led operations, and driving innovation in defence technology.
A recipient of numerous medals, including the Distinguished Service Star (DSS), AVM Aneke is married to Mrs. Ngozi Enderline Aneke, and their union is blessed with three sons.
