The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has airlifted sensitive electoral materials for the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election and a series of senatorial and federal constituency by-elections scheduled for June 20.
The operation, conducted between June 15 and 16 at the request of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was aimed at ensuring the secure and timely delivery of election materials from Abuja to designated locations across the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the mission covered preparations for the Ekiti governorship election, senatorial by-elections in Enugu North, Nasarawa North and Rivers South East senatorial districts, as well as federal constituency by-elections in Dawakin Kudu/Warawa in Kano State and Zuru/Shanga in Kebbi State.
Ejodame said the NAF deployed its strategic airlift assets to transport the sensitive materials from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to airports in Enugu, Rivers and Kano states, ensuring delivery within INEC’s stipulated timelines ahead of the polls.
“The successful airlift underscores the Service’s unwavering commitment to supporting democratic institutions and national development,” he said.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended personnel involved in the operation for their professionalism and dedication, reiterating the Air Force’s readiness to provide timely support to civil authorities while maintaining operational readiness in defence of the nation.
According to the statement, the exercise highlights the longstanding partnership between the NAF and INEC in safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process. Ejodame noted that the timely delivery of sensitive election materials remains critical to conducting credible polls and strengthening public confidence in democratic institutions.
He added that the mission further demonstrated the versatility of NAF air power in advancing national objectives while sustaining ongoing security operations across the country.
A total of 13 political parties are expected to participate in the Ekiti governorship election, which will be held across the state’s 117 wards, more than 2,000 polling units and 16 local government areas.