Nigerian Air Force Executes Airlift Of Sensitive Electoral Materials For Ekiti Governorship Election and Nationwide By-Elections

Nigerian Air Force Executes Airlift Of Sensitive Electoral Materials For Ekiti Governorship Election and Nationwide By-Elections

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully executed the airlift of sensitive electoral materials for the 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election and the senatorial and federal constituency by-elections scheduled for 20 June 2026, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to supporting democratic governance through Aid to Civil Authority operations. Conducted between 15 and 16 June 2026 at the request of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the operation ensured the secure and timely movement of sensitive electoral materials from Abuja to designated locations across the country.

The airlift supported preparations for the Ekiti State Governorship Election; the Senatorial By-Elections in Enugu North (Enugu State), Nasarawa North (Nasarawa State), Rivers South East (Rivers State) and Ondo South (Ondo State); as well as the Federal Constituency By-Elections in Dawakin Kudu/Warawa (Kano State) and Zuru/Shanga (Kebbi State). Leveraging its strategic airlift capabilities, the NAF transported the sensitive electoral materials from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to designated airports in Enugu, Rivers and Kano States, ensuring that INEC received the materials within the stipulated timeline ahead of the elections.

Commending the professionalism and dedication of NAF personnel, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, stated that the successful mission underscores the Service’s unwavering commitment to supporting democratic institutions and national development while maintaining a high level of operational readiness in defence of the nation. The operation further highlights the longstanding partnership between the NAF and INEC in safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process, while demonstrating the versatility of NAF air power in advancing critical national objectives, strengthening democratic processes, and sustaining ongoing operations across multiple theatres in defence of the nation.