Micah Jonah
February 8, 2026
In a heartfelt homecoming that thrilled residents, young officers alike, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, returned to his childhood home at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday, leaving a lasting impression on the next generation of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel.
During the visit, the Air Marshal toured the flats where he grew up with his father, a retired Air Warrant Officer, greeting residents, sharing vivid stories from his early life. Children and mothers lined the corridors, cheering and chanting, “We love you, sir, and want to be like you,” as Aneke encouraged them to stay disciplined, focused, and committed to their dreams.
“This place shaped me, it can shape you too. Greatness can grow quietly in ordinary spaces,” the CAS said, addressing the crowd.
In a move aimed at strengthening family welfare, the CAS announced concessions for Air Women of Warrant Officer rank and above, allowing greater flexibility in residential choices. He also inspected new housing units and the base hospital complex, affirming ongoing infrastructure improvements within the NAF community.
The visit carried a personal touch when the CAS paused to check on a longtime friend now wheelchair-bound after a stroke, highlighting the deep bonds that unite the service.
Officials said the visit underscored that effective leadership is rooted not just in command, but in compassion, memory, and the shared aspiration to nurture future leaders.
