By Harriet Tornguvan
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully airlifted sensitive electoral materials for the forthcoming Ekiti State Governorship Election and a series of senatorial and federal constituency by-elections scheduled for June 20, 2026, reaffirming its commitment to supporting Nigeria's democratic process.
The operation, carried out between June 15 and 16, followed a request by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the secure and timely transportation of electoral materials from Abuja to various locations across the country.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the airlift 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 of Kano State and Zuru/Shanga Federal Constituency of Kebbi State.
According to the statement, NAF deployed its strategic airlift assets to transport the sensitive materials from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to designated airports in Enugu, Rivers and Kano states, ensuring that INEC received the materials within the stipulated timeline ahead of the elections.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the professionalism and dedication displayed by personnel involved in the mission, describing the successful operation as another demonstration of the Service's commitment to supporting democratic institutions and national development.
He reiterated the Air Force's readiness to continue providing timely and effective assistance to civil authorities in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities, while maintaining operational readiness for national defence.
"The successful completion of the mission further highlights the NAF's critical role in supporting national institutions and strengthening democratic processes," the statement noted.
The operation also underscored the longstanding partnership between NAF and INEC in safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process. Timely delivery of sensitive election materials, the Air Force noted, remains crucial to ensuring credible elections and boosting public confidence in democratic institutions.
NAF further stated that the mission demonstrated the versatility of its air power capabilities in advancing critical national objectives while simultaneously sustaining ongoing military operations across various theatres in defence of the country.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to national service, describing itself as a dependable partner in promoting democratic governance, national development and stability.
