The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it is strengthening collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force as preparations heightens for the 2027 general elections.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, stated this in Abuja when he received the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and members of his delegation during a visit to the commission’s headquarters.
Amupitan said the partnership between the electoral body and the Air Force has remained crucial to the successful conduct of elections across the country. According to him, the movement of electoral materials and personnel—particularly to remote or difficult terrains—requires reliable logistics support.
He noted that elections are not only about voting but also about the ability to deliver materials and officials to thousands of polling locations on time.
The INEC chairman explained that the commission has already announced the timetable for the 2027 general elections after the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026.
Under the schedule released by the commission, elections for the President and members of the National Assembly will take place on January 16, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections are fixed for February 16, 2027.
Amupitan said preparations were ongoing and that INEC would continue working closely with security agencies to ensure smooth operations during the electoral period.
He commended the Nigerian Air Force for its role in previous elections, saying its support had helped the commission deliver materials promptly and safely to different parts of the country.
The INEC chairman cited the Anambra State governorship election held in November 2025, the Federal Capital Territory elections, and several by-elections as examples where the Air Force provided valuable logistical assistance.
He added that off-cycle governorship elections scheduled later in the year would also benefit from the collaboration between both institutions.
According to him, the Ekiti State governorship election expected in June and the Osun State governorship election slated for August 15 will serve as important preparatory exercises ahead of the nationwide polls in 2027.
Amupitan emphasized that efficient logistics remain a major determinant of credible elections.
He said timely distribution of electoral materials and proper deployment of personnel across the country would significantly enhance the integrity of the voting process.
Responding, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke reaffirmed the readiness of the Nigerian Air Force to continue supporting the electoral commission.
He said the Air Force considers its partnership with INEC an important contribution to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Aneke noted that the service will maintain its role in transporting electoral materials and personnel to locations that may be difficult to access by road, especially during nationwide elections.
He disclosed that steps were already being taken to ensure that Air Force aircraft remain operational and available for election-related assignments when the time comes.
According to him, once suitable landing areas are available, the Air Force has the capability to quickly move materials and personnel across different parts of the country.
The Air Chief also highlighted the growing importance of modern surveillance technology in maintaining security during elections.
He said the Nigerian Air Force now possesses improved intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, including the deployment of drones and other aerial monitoring tools.
Such technologies, he explained, could assist security agencies in observing sensitive areas, detecting potential threats and responding promptly during election periods.
Aneke further suggested the need for joint planning and simulation exercises between the Air Force and INEC to test operational strategies ahead of the elections.
He expressed confidence that stronger coordination among the Air Force, the electoral commission and other security agencies would help ensure successful and credible elections in the country.
