Nigerian Air Force (NAF)
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has assured the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the Service’s readiness to provide nationwide airlift and comprehensive security support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Air Chief boss made the pronouncement on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
He said the Air Force has consistently played a critical role in ensuring the timely delivery of sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials across Nigeria.
According to him, while some of the NAF C-130 aircraft are currently undergoing scheduled maintenance abroad, the force would deploy alternative aircraft to guarantee uninterrupted movement of election materials and personnel.
He said: “The relationship between the Nigerian Air Force and INEC has long been anchored on our shared commitment to national stability, professionalism, and the rule of law. The Nigerian Air Force considers its partnership with the Commission as an important contribution to safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
“This engagement therefore provides an opportunity to further deepen the existing collaboration between both institutions and reaffirm our collective resolve to support the successful conduct of elections across the country.
“The successful conduct of elections is closely tied to effective security arrangements and efficient logistics management. Over the years, the Nigerian Air Force has remained a dependable partner to INEC, particularly in providing security support as well as rapid airlift for the distribution of sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials across the country.
“I wish to assure you that the Nigerian Air Force remains willing, able, and ready to continue providing such support whenever required. At present, some of our C-130 aircraft are undergoing scheduled maintenance outside the country as part of efforts to sustain our strategic airlift capability. Nevertheless, the Service is making arrangements to deploy other available aircraft that can support the timely movement of electoral materials and personnel.
Beyond airlift, the Air Chief highlighted the Air Force’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, which will enhance situational awareness and support early detection of potential security threats during the electoral period.
He noted that the NAF will collaborate closely with other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, to protect INEC facilities, collation centres, and strategic logistics hubs.
The Air Chief praised the professionalism and apolitical nature of the Air Force, noting that its air power serves not just as a physical means of transport but also as a psychological assurance of election integrity.
“We are ready to deploy our capabilities wherever and whenever needed to safeguard the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy,” he said.
Speaking, INEC chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan commended the Air Force for its operational support during previous elections, citing the Anambra and FCT polls, as well as by-elections in Kano and Rivers states.
He stated that the presidential, National Assembly elections and governorship assembly polls would demand meticulous planning and robust logistics.
He added that a joint planning team would be established to coordinate operations ahead of the elections, adding that failure to plan is planning to fail.
