In a strategic move aimed at enhancing the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) operational efficiency, flexibility, and leadership dynamism, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has approved the redeployment and posting of several high-ranking officers. This redeployment exercise, which affects a broad spectrum of senior officers, underscores the Air Force’s commitment to refreshing its leadership with new perspectives, optimizing command capabilities, and ensuring that the evolving security challenges confronting the nation are addressed with renewed vigor.
A statement from the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, detailed the comprehensive reshuffle. Key among the changes is the redeployment of Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Olasunkanmi Abidoye, previously stationed at the Defence Headquarters, who will now assume the role of Chief of Standards and Evaluation at NAF Headquarters. AVM Abidoye’s move is expected to bring a wealth of experience and sharpened focus on performance metrics within the Air Force. In another significant shift, AVM Adeniyi Amesinlola, who served as the Commandant at the Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, has been reassigned as the Chief of Transformation and Innovation at NAF Headquarters. His new role is seen as critical to driving modernized initiatives that will shape the Air Force’s future operational strategies.
Other notable redeployments include AVM Abubakar Adamu, who has taken up the role of Group Managing Director of NAF Investments Limited (NAFIL Group), a key position that oversees the financial and business ventures of the Air Force. AVM Iboro Etukudo has been appointed as the Chief of Policy and Plans, a crucial role in steering the Air Force’s strategic policy formulation and execution. Similarly, AVM Francis Edosa has been entrusted with the position of Chief of Training and Operations, a role central to preparing Air Force personnel for contemporary challenges. Additionally, AVM Dalhat Ladan will now serve as the Chief of Air Intelligence, an appointment seen as critical given the increasing importance of intelligence in counterterrorism and national security efforts. AVM Suleiman Usman takes over as Chief of Communication and Information Systems, a pivotal role that supports the backbone of NAF’s communication infrastructure. AVM Sayo Olatunde and AVM Lanre Oluwatoyin have also been redeployed, with Olatunde assuming the position of Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, and Oluwatoyin taking charge as Chief of Defence Space Administration at the Defence Headquarters, both strategic roles with far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s overall defence architecture.
The redeployment of AVM Ibikunle Daramola, formerly the Chief of Communication and Information Systems, to his new role as Chief of Civil-Military Relations is expected to strengthen the bond between the NAF and the civilian populace. This move is part of the broader strategy to enhance public trust and cooperation, which are vital in military operations, particularly in addressing internal security threats. AVM Abiola Amodu, who previously held the position of Director General of the Air Force Research and Development Institute, has been assigned the role of Chief of Aircraft Engineering. His expertise in aeronautical research and innovation is expected to provide a significant boost to NAF’s technological advancement and aircraft maintenance capabilities. Furthermore, AVM Patrick Phillips, taking up the mantle as the Chief of Logistics, is expected to bring a fresh approach to resource management and logistics, ensuring that NAF’s operational needs are efficiently met across various theatres of operation.
In addition to these high-profile appointments, several Air Officers Commanding (AOCs) have also been appointed. AVM Elijah Ebiowe has been assigned as the AOC of Tactical Air Command in Makurdi, one of the Air Force’s most critical commands. He is tasked with overseeing tactical air operations, particularly in the north-central region, where the security situation remains volatile. AVM Sunday Aneke takes charge as the new AOC of Mobility Command in Yenagoa, where he will be responsible for managing air transportation logistics, a critical function for the Air Force’s rapid response and deployment capabilities. Meanwhile, AVM Abubakar Abdullahi has been appointed the AOC of Air Training Command in Kaduna, a position crucial for shaping the future generation of NAF officers through rigorous training and educational programs. AVM Adeniran Ademuwagun will now oversee the Logistics Command in Ikeja, a command vital for the efficient management of NAF’s supply chains and equipment distribution.
In congratulating the newly appointed officers, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar emphasized the strategic importance of these redeployments. He highlighted that the reshuffling is not just about assigning officers to new posts but is also aimed at injecting innovative thinking into NAF’s leadership structure. He stressed the necessity for leaders to adopt deep and critical thinking when devising strategies to tackle the myriad of security challenges facing the country, including insurgency, banditry, and other criminal activities. According to him,
The deployment of these senior officers is a clear indication of NAF’s commitment to maintaining a robust and adaptive force capable of defending the nation’s airspace and contributing to national security.This redeployment, while a routine military exercise, sends a strong message about NAF’s proactive approach to leadership renewal and operational flexibility. By placing experienced and capable officers in critical roles, the Air Force aims to optimize its resources and ensure that it remains agile and responsive to the ever-changing security landscape of Nigeria. The move aligns with broader efforts by the Nigerian military to reposition itself to effectively meet both traditional and emerging threats, leveraging both human and technological assets to maintain air superiority and protect the nation’s sovereignty.
