The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and the Nigerian Air Force, NAF, have reaffirmed commitment to collaborate on logistics, security, and airlift of electoral personnel and materials ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Both agencies gave the indication on Tuesday in Abuja, during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Air Staff, CAS, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, accompanied by senior Air Force officers, to the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.
Speaking during the visit, Amupitan disclosed that a joint working team would be established between INEC and the Air Force to coordinate logistics and security preparations well ahead of upcoming elections.
“For Nigerians, the next general election carries very high expectations. We must therefore ensure that every aspect, from logistics to security, is carefully planned so that the election can truly reflect both legality and legitimacy,” he said.
The INEC Chairman described the Air Force Chief’s visit as a reassuring sign of support as Nigeria prepares for another electoral cycle.
“We have a very distinguished guest this morning — the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the very capable team that accompanied him,” he said.
“I can see the enthusiasm among them. When military commanders visit, we often see the seriousness of their mission, but today I also see the confidence and assurance that the Nigerian Air Force, with its air power, is ready and able to support the commission.”
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.
“On behalf of the Independent National Electoral Commission and my colleagues, I extend our heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable partnership and support the Nigerian Air Force has consistently provided, especially in facilitating logistics and security before and during elections.
“Your efforts have played a crucial role in ensuring smooth electoral processes and reinforcing our collective commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy,” he said.
Amupitan noted that the commission had already released the timetable for the 2027 general elections under the revised schedule pursuant to the Electoral Act 2026.
According to him, presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections will follow on February 6, 2027.
“As we look ahead to these dates, we recognise the challenges that come with nationwide elections. However, we are confident that with the continued partnership and support of the Nigerian Air Force, we can provide a secure and orderly environment for Nigerians to exercise their democratic rights,” he said.
The INEC chairman also commended the Air Force for its prompt response during recent electoral exercises, including the November 2025 Anambra governorship election, the FCT area council elections, and several by-elections in Rivers and Kano states.
“At very short notice, the Nigerian Air Force was able to deliver the needed support. Even when we encountered minor challenges, your team responded promptly to ensure there were no major logistical disruptions,” he said.
He added that INEC would soon conduct off-cycle governorship elections in Edo State in June and Osun State on August 15, describing the polls as crucial preparatory exercises ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“An election can only be as successful as its logistics. We have sometimes encountered challenges in this area, and it has become clear that we must more effectively leverage the enormous logistical capacity within the military.
“In that regard, we are ready to work closely with the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to strengthen logistics planning and ensure better deployment during future elections,” Amupitan said.
Also speaking, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Aneke noted that Nigeria, as Africa’s largest democracy, relies heavily on strong institutions such as INEC to sustain public confidence in democratic governance.
“Through its constitutional mandate of organising and conducting elections, INEC plays a central role in ensuring that Nigerians freely exercise their sovereign right to choose their leaders,” he said.
The Air Force Chief also commended recent initiatives introduced by the commission, particularly efforts aimed at making the electoral process more inclusive.
“We have observed a renewed emphasis on institutional reforms, staff welfare, and initiatives aimed at enhancing the inclusiveness of the electoral process.
“In particular, the introduction of sign language interpreters at polling units represents a commendable step towards ensuring that persons with disabilities can participate more fully in the democratic process,” he said.
Aneke reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to supporting electoral operations across the country, particularly in the areas of security and logistics.
“The successful conduct of elections is closely tied to effective security arrangements and efficient logistics management.
“Over the years, the Nigerian Air Force has remained a dependable partner to INEC, particularly in providing security support as well as rapid airlift for the distribution of sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials,” he said.
He assured the commission that the Air Force remains prepared to continue providing operational support during elections.
“I wish to assure you that the Nigerian Air Force remains willing, able, and ready to continue providing such support whenever required,” he said.
Aneke disclosed that while some of the Air Force’s C-130 aircraft are currently undergoing scheduled maintenance overseas, alternative aircraft are being prepared to support electoral logistics when necessary.
He noted that beyond airlift operations, the Air Force is also positioning its Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance capabilities to support election security.
“These capabilities will enhance situational awareness and assist in the early detection of potential security threats during the electoral period,” he said.
He added that the Air Force would continue to collaborate with other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, to safeguard electoral infrastructure such as INEC facilities, collation centres, and logistics hubs.
“The Nigerian Air Force remains fully committed to deploying its capabilities in support of a secure electoral environment and the continued consolidation of Nigeria’s democracy,” Aneke said.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued commitment to strengthening democratic institutions in the country.
