NAF elevates 57 senior officers to boost command capacity amid security challenges

NAF elevates 57 senior officers to boost command capacity amid security challenges

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has promoted 57 senior officers to the ranks of Air Vice Marshal and Air Commodore, a move the Service says is aimed at strengthening its command structure and enhancing operational effectiveness amid growing national security threats.

A breakdown of the promotion list, released on Thursday, shows that 27 officers were elevated to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, while 30 others were promoted to Air Commodore. The exercise, announced on 27 November 2025, is part of ongoing efforts to build a more agile and technologically driven force capable of responding swiftly to insecurity across multiple theatres of operation.

Those promoted to Air Vice Marshal include Air Commodores SA Eyoma, GI Jibia, AA Adebomehin, ES Odekina, CE Akubue, SO Eyekosi, AO Akinbuwa, LI Kamat, AG Akinyimika, AO Bamidele, AK Famuyiwa, PJ Edem, SA Madaki, OT Salami, FO Ankeli, MJ Chidama, JJ Ijudigal, M Umar, IJ Ogbodo, U Ariahu, AL Dakwat, CE Akpa, EC Ukpong, IS Subi, IM Yusha’u, SS Lazarus and F Ekpah.

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Promoted to the rank of Air Commodore are Group Captains MA Imam, AA Komolafe, HI Eze, DU Edet, MB Umar, GH Okoh, SP Sekegor, PP Okonkwo, PU Okweugo, AU Yahaya, M Yahaya, IR Ubeh, OK Cole, EA Ifebi, RK Olundu, IO Akpasa, AK Mohammed, HA Meshack, SN Nwachi, ZB Shuwa, EJ Alabila, SA Osoniyi, AO Ogunmola, AJ Arumona, BI Jayeoba, CE Akuh, NN Onuoha-Mba, PA Garba, YM Abdullahi and M Suleiman.

According to the NAF, the promotion cycle followed a rigorous evaluation process that assessed merit, professional competence, operational experience, and alignment with the Service’s strategic objectives.

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, hailed the newly promoted officers, describing their elevation as recognition of their sacrifice and professionalism, but also a call to greater responsibility. He said the promotions come at a critical time when the country is confronted with some of the most complex security threats in its history, including terrorism, banditry, cross-border crimes and emerging asymmetric dangers.

“This elevation is not just recognition, it is responsibility,” Aneke said. “The nation needs leaders who think clearly under pressure, act with precision, and inspire the men and women behind them as a unified force. Nigeria is counting on you, and you must not fail.”

He urged the senior officers to uphold discipline, deepen inter-service cooperation, strengthen intelligence operations, and mentor younger personnel to enhance the overall effectiveness of the Nigerian Air Force.

Aneke reaffirmed the commitment of the NAF to ongoing reforms aimed at building a smarter, more technologically advanced force capable of delivering decisive airpower whenever required.

The Nigerian Air Force congratulated all newly promoted officers and expressed confidence that they would continue to demonstrate excellence in command and leadership.

The statement was signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters.

NAF elevates 57 senior officers to boost command capacity amid security challenges