NAF promotes 27 to Air Vice Marshal, 30 to Air Commodore in major leadership boost

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has promoted 57 senior officers to higher command positions as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership and enhance operational efficiency amid mounting security challenges across the country.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Air Council announced the elevation of 27 officers to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, while 30 others were promoted to Air Commodore.

The promotions, approved on 27 November 2025, form part of the Service’s broader plan to reinforce strategic command and sharpen decision-making at critical levels.

Among those promoted to Air Vice Marshal are 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.

Similarly, 30 Group Captains, including MA Imam, AA Komolafe, HI Eze, DU Edet, MB Umar, GH Okoh, and SP Sekegor, were elevated to the rank of Air Commodore.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the promotions as a well-deserved acknowledgement of professionalism, loyalty and competence.

He noted that the new senior officers had demonstrated the leadership qualities required to navigate Nigeria’s increasingly complex security landscape.

Aneke highlighted the growing demands on the Armed Forces, citing persistent threats ranging from terrorism and banditry to cross-border and asymmetric crimes.

He stressed that such challenges require decisive leadership, faster operational responses and stronger joint efforts among security agencies.

“This elevation is not just recognition; it is responsibility,” the Air Chief declared, urging the newly promoted officers to uphold discipline, strengthen inter-agency collaboration and mentor junior personnel.

He also underscored the need for precision and clarity of thought in all air operations.

According to NAF, the promotion cycle aligns with its ongoing reforms to build a more agile, technology-driven and intelligence-led force capable of deploying effective airpower at short notice.

The Service congratulated the officers, expressing confidence in their capacity to deliver on their expanded roles and contribute to national defence objectives.

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