In line with the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) ongoing redeployment of senior officers to enhance operational effectiveness, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Esen Paul Efanga has officially taken over as the 11th Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of the Air Training Command (ATC).
The formal handover ceremony took place on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, at the Command Headquarters in Kaduna.
The colourful event was attended by senior officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian staff. It featured the traditional handing and taking over of the Command flag, as well as the signing of handover notes between the outgoing and incoming AOCs, symbolising the transfer of authority and responsibility.
The ceremony emphasised continuity of leadership and reinforced the central role of training in operational readiness, discipline, and airpower effectiveness.
In his maiden address, AVM Efanga expressed gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, for the confidence reposed in him, and paid tribute to his predecessor for laying a solid foundation during his tenure. He pledged to strengthen training standards, promote innovation, and ensure realistic exercises so that NAF personnel remain fully prepared for ongoing counter-insurgency, counter-banditry, and counter-terrorism operations across all theatres.
In his farewell remarks, AVM Ahmed Yusuf Dari thanked officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian staff for their professionalism and support. He pledged to continue enhancing training frameworks in his new role as Chief of Training at Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, ensuring they directly contribute to operational effectiveness and mission success.
