The Nigerian Air Force has approved the promotion of 57 senior officers to top command positions as part of renewed efforts to strengthen its leadership structure and improve operational efficiency nationwide.
The announcement, contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed that 27 officers were elevated to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, while 30 others were promoted to Air Commodore.
According to the statement, the newly promoted Air Vice Marshals are: 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.
The 30 officers promoted to the rank of Air Commodore include 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.
Ejodame said the promotion exercise reflects the Air Force’s drive to bolster high-command capacity and deepen the expertise required to tackle the nation’s growing security challenges.
He noted that the officers were selected after a thorough assessment of their competence, operational experience, and alignment with the service’s strategic goals.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the elevations as well-deserved, praising the officers for their sacrifice and commitment to national defence.
READ ALSO: NAF Airstrikes Destroy Terrorist Hideout in Zamfara
He highlighted the importance of strong leadership as the country faces escalating threats ranging from terrorism and banditry to cross-border crimes.
“This elevation is not just recognition—it is responsibility,” Aneke said, urging the newly promoted officers to demonstrate clarity, discipline, and decisive leadership in their new roles. He also charged them to strengthen colla
boration with other security agencies, enhance intelligence-driven operations, and mentor junior personnel.
The Air Chief expressed confidence that the promotions would further boost the NAF’s readiness and operational effectiveness across all theatres of operation.