Esther Oseyiomon
Days ahead of key electoral exercises across the country, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed its airlift capabilities to support the movement of sensitive election materials in a bid to ensure smooth and timely preparations.
The operation, carried out between June 15 and 16, 2026, involved the air transportation of sensitive electoral materials for the Ekiti State Governorship Election and a series of senatorial and federal constituency by-elections scheduled for June 20, 2026.
The mission was undertaken at the request of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as part of efforts to guarantee secure and efficient delivery of critical election materials from Abuja to designated locations nationwide.
According to the Nigerian Air Force, the operation covered preparations for the Ekiti governorship election, senatorial by-elections in Enugu North Senatorial District, Nasarawa North Senatorial District and Rivers South East Senatorial District, as well as federal constituency by-elections in Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in Kano State and Zuru/Shanga Federal Constituency in Kebbi State.
Using its strategic air mobility assets, the Service transported the materials from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to receiving points in Enugu, Rivers and Kano States to meet electoral timelines ahead of the polls.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended personnel involved in the operation, describing the successful mission as a reflection of the Service’s commitment to supporting democratic institutions and national development.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s readiness to continue providing support to civil authorities while sustaining operational effectiveness in carrying out its primary defence responsibilities.
The Service noted that the operation reinforces the longstanding collaboration between the military and INEC in strengthening the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, stressing that timely delivery of sensitive materials remains critical to conducting credible elections.
NAF further stated that the successful completion of the mission demonstrates the flexibility of air power beyond combat operations and highlights its broader role in supporting governance, national stability and democratic consolidation across the country.