2027: NAF ready for election surveillance – CAS
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it is positioning its Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities and alternative aircraft to support the logistics and security of the 2027 general elections. Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral […]
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it is positioning its Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities and alternative aircraft to support the logistics and security of the 2027 general elections.
Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja.
Aneke said the Air Force was making arrangements to deploy available aircraft for the movement of electoral materials and personnel across the country, noting that some of its C-130 aircraft were currently undergoing scheduled maintenance outside the country.
“Nevertheless, the service is making arrangements to deploy other available aircraft that can support the timely movement of electoral materials and personnel,” he said.
In his remarks, the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, said the commission would establish a joint working team with the Nigerian Air Force to coordinate logistics and security planning ahead of future elections.
He described the visit by the Chief of Air Staff as a reassurance of the military’s readiness to support the electoral process.
He added that the Air Force was also positioning some of its ISR capabilities to enhance situational awareness during the electoral period adding that the capabilities would help in the early detection of potential security threats and enable timely response by relevant agencies.
The CAS also commended the electoral commission for initiatives aimed at strengthening transparency and inclusiveness in the electoral process.
Aneke expressed confidence that sustained collaboration between the Nigerian Air Force and the electoral body would contribute to a secure electoral environment and further strengthen the country’s democracy.
Amupitan expressed appreciation for the longstanding partnership between the electoral body and the Air Force, particularly in the areas of logistics and security support during elections.
The INEC chairman also commended the Air Force for its prompt support during recent electoral exercises adding that the upcoming off-cycle governorship elections would serve as important preparatory exercises ahead of the 2027 polls.