7 key things to know about AVM Sunday Kelvin Aneke, Nigeria’s new Chief of Air Staff

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Sunday Kelvin Aneke as the new Chief of Air Staff (CAS), following a major shake-up in the leadership of the Armed Forces.

His appointment is part of the administration’s renewed efforts to strengthen national security and improve efficiency within the military.

With more than 30 years of service, Aneke brings to the position a wealth of experience, academic brilliance, and strong leadership.

Here are seven key things to know about Nigeria’s new Air Force Chief:

1. Birth

Born on February 20, 1972, in Makurdi, Benue State, to Air Warrant Officer Sylvester Aneke and Mrs. Ngozi Aneke, he hails from Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Raised in a military family, Aneke grew up with a deep sense of discipline and service, values that have guided his dedication to the Nigerian Air Force throughout his career.

2. His military journey began in 1988

Aneke began his military career on September 10, 1988, when he was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a member of the 40th Regular Course.

He was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in the Nigerian Air Force on September 10, 1993, marking the beginning of an impressive career that has seen him hold numerous operational and administrative positions across various commands.

3. Robust academic credentials

AVM Aneke holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics from the Nigerian Defence Academy, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from the University of Calabar, a Master’s degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, a Master’s degree in Political Economy and Developmental Studies from the University of Abuja, and a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Air War College, Air University, Montgomery, Alabama.

His broad academic foundation strengthens his understanding of defence strategy, diplomacy, and global security dynamics.

4. Aneke has held several high-level command and staff positions

Throughout his distinguished career, Aneke has served in a variety of key roles within the Air Force.

These include Administrative Officer at the Aircraft Overhaul Centre in Ikeja, Group Logistics Officer at the 301 Flying Training School in Kaduna, and Commander of the Base Services Wing at the Air Maritime Group in Benin.

He also served as Staff Officer with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Congo (MONUC), Fleet Training Officer and Wing Chief (Administration and Operations) in the Presidential Air Fleet, Commander of the 307 Executive Airlift Group in Abuja, as well as Director of Safety, Director of Policy, and Deputy Director of Operations at the Air Force Headquarters.

In addition, he has served as Chief of Staff at the Air Training Command, Kaduna, and Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy.

5. Highly experienced pilot

AVM Aneke is a highly skilled pilot with an Advanced Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and over 4,359 flight hours.

He is certified to fly several aircraft types, including the Air Beetle 18, Dornier 228, Citation 500, Falcon 900, Gulfstream V, Gulfstream 550, and Hawker 4000.

His combination of technical knowledge and hands-on flying experience distinguishes him as both a strategist and an operational expert.

6. He has international exposure and strategic military training

Aneke’s experience extends beyond Nigeria’s borders.

His service with the United Nations Mission in Congo (MONUC) provided him with valuable peacekeeping experience, while his education at the U.S. Air War College further deepened his strategic and leadership skills.

These international experiences have equipped him with a broad understanding of global air power management and defence diplomacy.

7. Family

Beyond his military career, AVM Aneke is a family-oriented individual. He is married to Mrs. Ngozi Enderline Aneke, and their marriage is blessed with three sons, Chukwuebuka Kelvin, Ifeanyichukwu Brian, and Uchechukwu Jason.

He enjoys flying, music, and movies, and values spending time with his family, balancing his professional duties with leisure and creativity.