Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully airlifted sensitive electoral materials for the 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election and a series of senatorial and federal constituency by-elections scheduled for June 20, reinforcing its support for 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 election materials from Abuja to various parts of the country.
The airlift supported preparations for the Ekiti governorship election, as well as senatorial by-elections in Enugu North Senatorial District, Nasarawa North Senatorial District, and Rivers South East Senatorial District. It also covered federal constituency by-elections in Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in Kano State and Zuru/Shanga Federal Constituency in Kebbi State.
According to s statement by the Director of Public Relations and information NAF Headquarters Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, leveraging its strategic air mobility capabilities, the NAF transported the sensitive materials from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to designated airports in Enugu, Rivers and Kano states, ensuring their delivery within the timelines set by INEC.
Consequently, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, praised the professionalism and dedication of personnel involved in the mission, describing the successful operation as a reflection of the Air Force’s commitment to supporting democratic institutions and national development.
According to him, the NAF remains ready to provide timely and effective assistance to civil authorities in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities while maintaining operational readiness to defend the nation.
The successful mission highlights the longstanding collaboration between the NAF and INEC in safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process. Timely deployment of sensitive election materials is considered crucial to conducting credible elections and strengthening public confidence in democratic institutions.
Beyond electoral support, the operation also demonstrates the versatility of NAF air power in advancing key national objectives while sustaining ongoing security operations across the country.
With the successful completion of the airlift, the Nigerian Air Force has once again underscored its role as a dependable partner in promoting democratic governance, national stability and development.