Born in Benue, hails from Udi: Profile of Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke – Chief of Air Staff, Nigerian Air Force

Born on February 20, 1972, in Makurdi, Benue State, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke is the newly appointed Chief of Air Staff (CAS) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). A man of discipline, intellect, and quiet distinction, Aneke’s appointment marks the culmination of over three decades of meritorious service to the nation.

Hailing from Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, he is the son of Air Warrant Officer Sylvester Aneke (Rtd.) and Mrs. Ngozi Aneke, whose influence and values of hard work and integrity helped shape his early life and career ambitions.

Early Life and Military Career

Aneke’s passion for aviation and national service led him to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, where he was admitted on September 10, 1988, as a member of the 40th Regular Course. After five years of rigorous military and academic training, he was commissioned into the Nigerian Air Force as a Pilot Officer on September 10, 1993. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey defined by commitment, excellence, and leadership.

Academic and Professional Excellence

A consummate scholar and strategist, Air Marshal Aneke’s educational attainments reflect his intellectual depth and his belief in continuous learning. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics, 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 in Political Economy and Developmental Studies from the University of Abuja, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the prestigious U.S. Air War College, Montgomery, Alabama.

His academic background, combined with his operational experience, has earned him a reputation as one of the most well-rounded officers in the Nigerian Air Force — equally adept in command, policy, and strategic planning.

Distinguished Service and Command Roles

Throughout his illustrious career, Air Marshal Aneke has held numerous command, operational, and administrative appointments. His postings have cut across the breadth of the Nigerian Air Force, reflecting versatility and a steady rise through the ranks.

Notable positions he has held include:

• Admin Officer, Aircraft Overhaul Centre, Ikeja

• Commander, 307 Executive Airlift Group, Abuja

• Director of Safety, Nigerian Air Force Headquarters

• Deputy Commandant, Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna

In each of these roles, he demonstrated a deep sense of professionalism and an unwavering commitment to operational efficiency, personnel welfare, and the modernization of the Air Force.

A Seasoned Pilot and Air Mobility Expert

Air Marshal Aneke is an accomplished pilot with extensive experience in both tactical and strategic airlift operations. He is type-rated on multiple aircraft, including the Dornier 228, Citation 500, Falcon 900, Gulfstream V, Gulfstream 550, and Hawker 4000. With over 4,300 flying hours, he possesses an Advanced Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and has played key roles in several VIP and mission-critical flights within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.

His service medals and decorations include: Grand Service Star (GSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS), General Service Medal (GSM), Force Service Medal (FCM), Passed Staff Course (Psc), and U.S. Air Force War College (USAFWC) badge — symbols of dedication, loyalty, and distinguished contribution to the nation’s air power capability.

Personal Life

Beyond the uniform, Air Marshal Aneke is known for his humility, deep faith, and devotion to family. He is married to Mrs. Ngozi Enderline Aneke, and their union is blessed with three sons — Chukwuebuka Kelvin, Ifeanyichukwu Brian, and Uchechukwu Jason.

His leadership style is marked by discipline, innovation, and inclusiveness — qualities that are expected to shape his tenure as Chief of Air Staff as he leads the Nigerian Air Force toward greater professionalism, technological advancement, and operational readiness in line with Nigeria’s national security objectives.