By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully transported sensitive electoral materials for the 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election and several senatorial and federal constituency by-elections scheduled for June 20, 2026.
The operation, conducted between June 15 and June 16, followed a request from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure the secure and timely delivery of election materials to designated locations across the country.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Force said the airlift operation was part of efforts to support preparations for the Ekiti governorship election and by-elections in different parts of the country.
The elections covered by the operation include the Enugu North Senatorial District by-election in Enugu State, Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election in Nasarawa State, and Rivers South East Senatorial District by-election in Rivers State.
The mission also supported federal constituency by-elections in the Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency of Kano State and the Zuru/Shanga Federal Constituency of Kebbi State.
Using 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. The materials were delivered within the timeline set by INEC ahead of the elections.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the officers and personnel involved in the operation for their professionalism and commitment to duty.
He described the successful mission as a reflection of the Air Force’s dedication to supporting democratic institutions and national development while maintaining operational readiness to protect the country.
According to the NAF, the operation further strengthens its longstanding partnership with INEC in safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process. The Air Force noted that the timely delivery of sensitive election materials remains vital to conducting credible elections and enhancing public confidence in democratic institutions.
The Service added that the successful airlift demonstrates the versatility of NAF air power in supporting national objectives while sustaining ongoing security operations across various parts of the country.
