Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the nominee for Chief of Air Staff, has told the Nigerian Senate that the Air Force must evolve beyond traditional combat tactics to confront a “smarter enemy” through technology, adaptability, and synergy with other military services.
Appearing before lawmakers for his screening on Tuesday, Aneke mixed humility with strategic vision, declaring that success in modern warfare depends more on flexibility and intellect than on brute force.
“The world is changing rapidly. Those who will survive will not necessarily be the strongest or the fittest, but those who can adapt. The enemy you are fighting went to school. He’s as smart as you. Your greatest mistake is to judge him by the clothes he wears,” he said.
Born in 1972 in Makurdi, Benue State, Aneke was commissioned into the Nigerian Air Force in 1993. Over his 30-year career, he has held several key command, instructional, and policy positions, including Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Yenagoa, and service with the Presidential Air Fleet.
A seasoned pilot with over 4,300 flying hours, he has flown aircraft such as the Gulfstream 550, Dornier 228, and Hawker 4000. His operational experience spans Operation Restore Hope in the Niger Delta to UN peacekeeping missions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he served as Chief of Operations in the Ituri Region.
Aneke’s academic achievements reflect his intellectual depth. He holds degrees in Physics, Management, International Affairs, Political Economy, and Strategic Studies, including a Master’s from the U.S. Air War College.
He is currently pursuing a PhD and holds an Aviation Safety certification from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida, underscoring his dedication to research and lifelong learning.
On inter-service cooperation, Aneke emphasized the importance of joint military operations.
“Security is not a solo effort. The Air Force, Navy, and Army must work as one. Air power complements naval operations to deny criminals safe havens on land and at sea,” he stated.
He also stressed prudent use of resources and technological innovation, noting the cost benefits of deploying drones alongside manned aircraft.
“Some of the tasks Super Tucanos perform can also be done by drones with less risk. Aviation is expensive, but we are using these assets wisely. Our airplanes are flying, especially in the North East and North West.”
Aneke said his leadership philosophy would focus on intelligence integration, rigorous training, research, and innovation.
“We will squeeze every dollar, every naira, to ensure value for every kobo spent on us.”
Outside his uniform, Aneke described himself as a devoted family man, married to Mrs. Ngozi Aneke with three sons and one who finds balance in flying, basketball, and music.
If confirmed, AVM Aneke is expected to steer the Nigerian Air Force into a new age of precision, partnership, and adaptive warfare, anchored on intellect, integrity, and innovation.