The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has warned that any member of Nigeria’s Armed Forces found guilty of plotting to overthrow the country’s democratic government will be dealt with according to the law.
Aneke gave the warning on Wednesday while meeting with Air Officers Commanding and unit commanders at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters in Abuja, during a strategic session marking his first 100 days in office.
He described reports of an alleged coup plan against the administration of President Bola Tinubu as disgraceful and unacceptable, stressing that the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to the Constitution and loyal to the democratically elected government.
He said he strongly condemned any attempt by individuals to undermine democracy or forcefully seize power, adding that those involved would face legal consequences.
The air chief also reminded commanders of the need to uphold unity, discipline, and cohesion within the force, especially as the country moves closer to another election season. According to him, the military’s duty is to support civil authorities and protect democratic processes without political bias.
Reports indicate that over 40 military personnel and civilians were arrested in connection with an alleged coup plot said to have been planned in October last year, while relatives of some suspects have appealed for leniency and fair trial.
Speaking on his achievements so far, Aneke said he had visited various commands and units across the country to evaluate operations and engage directly with personnel.
He noted that global security challenges were becoming more complicated, citing renewed international rivalry, changing alliances, and growing instability in the Sahel as serious threats to Nigeria.
Aneke expressed concern over the situation in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, warning that the expansion of jihadist groups linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda could spread further into coastal West African nations, including Nigeria.
He also described reports of increased Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) activities in Kwara State as troubling and said such threats must be decisively addressed.
On the domestic front, the air chief acknowledged slight improvements in security, including reduced pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta and improved stability in the South-East, where joint security operations have weakened separatist violence and reduced the impact of sit-at-home orders.
He said combined security operations in the Niger Delta have contributed to raising Nigeria’s crude oil output to about 2.2 million barrels per day, though illegal activities around oil facilities remain a major challenge.
Aneke further urged commanders to maintain professionalism and political neutrality as preparations for the 2027 general elections begin to gather momentum.
He encouraged open and solution-driven discussions at the meeting, expressing confidence that the outcomes would lead to measurable improvements within the service.
The air chief also thanked President Tinubu for his leadership and assured Nigerians that the Air Force would continue to deliver effective air power in collaboration with ground forces to protect the nation’s territorial integrity.
He pledged that the Nigerian Air Force would remain committed to safeguarding the country’s national security objectives.
