The Nigerian Air Force has successfully transported sensitive electoral materials for the upcoming Ekiti State governorship election and several senatorial and federal constituency by-elections scheduled for June 20, 2026.
The operation, conducted between June 15 and June 16, was carried out at the request of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure the secure and timely delivery of election materials from Abuja to designated locations across the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the exercise covered preparations for the Ekiti governorship election as well as senatorial by-elections in Enugu North Senatorial District of Enugu State, Nasarawa North Senatorial District of Nasarawa State, and Rivers South East Senatorial District of Rivers State.
The operation also included the movement of materials for federal constituency by-elections in Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in Kano State and Zuru/Shanga Federal Constituency in Kebbi State.
Ejodame explained that the Air Force deployed its strategic airlift assets to transport the sensitive materials from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to airports in Enugu, Rivers and Kano states.
According to him, the operation ensured that INEC received all materials within the stipulated timeframe ahead of the elections.
“The successful completion of the mission further highlights the NAF’s critical role in supporting national institutions and strengthening democratic processes,” he said.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended personnel involved in the operation for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to duty.
Aneke said the successful airlift demonstrated the Air Force’s unwavering support for democratic institutions and national development.
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He added that the service remains prepared to provide timely and effective assistance to civil authorities in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities while maintaining operational readiness to defend the nation.
The NAF noted that the operation reflects its longstanding partnership with INEC in safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Ejodame stressed that the timely delivery of sensitive electoral materials is essential for conducting credible elections and strengthening public confidence in democratic institutions.
The Air Force also stated that the mission showcased the versatility of its air power capabilities in advancing national objectives while sustaining operations across various theatres in defence of the country.
Meanwhile, 13 political parties are expected to participate in the Ekiti State off-cycle governorship election scheduled to take place on June 20 across the state’s 117 registration areas and more than 2,000 polling units spread across its 16 local government areas.
