Ekiti Governorship, By-Elections: NAF Transports Critical Poll Materials

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) recently executed a critical operation, airlifting sensitive election materials in preparation for the upcoming 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election and a number of senatorial and federal constituency by-elections, all slated for June 20, 2026. This vital logistical exercise, conducted from June 15 to 16, was initiated following a request from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), aiming to guarantee the safe and prompt transportation of these crucial items from the nation's capital, Abuja, to various specified sites nationwide.

A statement issued on Wednesday by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF's Director of Public Relations and Information, detailed the scope of the airlift. Beyond the Ekiti governorship election, the mission encompassed logistical support for senatorial by-elections in the Enugu North Senatorial District of Enugu State, the Nasarawa North Senatorial District of Nasarawa State, and the Rivers South East Senatorial District of Rivers State. Additionally, the operation facilitated federal constituency by-elections in the Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency of Kano State and the Zuru/Shanga Federal Constituency of Kebbi State.

Ejodame confirmed that the NAF utilized its extensive airlift resources to convey the materials from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to designated airports located in Enugu, Rivers, and Kano states. He quoted, “Leveraging 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, ensuring that INEC received the materials within the stipulated timeline ahead of the elections.”

Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Chief of the Air Staff, lauded the NAF personnel who participated in the mission, recognizing their exceptional professionalism and unwavering dedication. Aneke stated, “The successful airlift underscores the Service’s unwavering commitment to supporting democratic institutions and national development.” He further emphasized the NAF's preparedness to offer “timely and effective support to civil authorities in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities while maintaining a high level of operational readiness in defence of the nation.”

The NAF's official statement also highlighted the enduring collaboration between the Air Force and INEC, crucial for upholding the integrity of Nigeria's electoral system. Air Commodore Ejodame pointed out that the prompt delivery of sensitive election materials is fundamental to executing credible elections and fostering public trust in democratic bodies. He reiterated, “The successful completion of the mission further highlights the NAF’s critical role in supporting national institutions and strengthening democratic processes.” Ejodame concluded that this operation showcased the adaptability of NAF's air power in furthering national goals, even as it maintains concurrent operations across various theatres for national defense.

The PUNCH newspaper reported that a total of 13 political parties are poised to contest the off-cycle Ekiti State governorship election. This election, scheduled for June 20, 2026, will take place across the state's 117 registration areas/wards and more than 2,000 designated polling units, spanning all 16 local government areas within the state.