NAF official receives land donation from Akwa Ibom representative for Niger Delta operational base.
By Emmanuel Obisue
Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has recorded a major boost in its operational capacity in the Niger Delta region following the donation of land by the Akwa Ibom State Government for the establishment of barracks accommodation to support a Forward Operational Base, FOB. The initiative is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s air power projection and maritime security operations within the Gulf of Guinea corridor.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday. He noted that the FOB, when completed, would serve both military and socio-economic interests in the region.
“The FOB, when established,” the statement quoted the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, as saying, “will provide further assurance of the safety and security of persons and property, thereby fostering the entrenchment of Akwa Ibom State as a very good investment and tourism destination”.
“Your Excellency, your proactive disposition to issues of security and development speaks volumes. The partnership we are building here is not only about air operations; it is about investing in the future of our country, and ensuring that we leave behind a more secure, resilient, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to Governor Umo Eno in Uyo, Air Marshal Abubakar praised the state government for its unwavering support toward national defence, describing the land donation as a crucial step toward developing critical infrastructure that would enhance both security and commerce in the region.
He reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to the protection of lives and property in Akwa Ibom and beyond, noting that a stronger presence in the region would significantly boost investor confidence and suppress maritime threats.
Governor Eno acknowledged the strategic relevance of the Air Force’s growing presence in the state. “We believe that a safe and secure society is the bedrock of development,” he stated, “and we are glad to partner with the NAF to achieve that objective”.
As part of the visit, the Air Chief also paid homage to His Royal Majesty, Obong Edidem Charles D. Abia, the Paramount Ruler of Eket, where he emphasized the importance of traditional institutions in fostering cooperation with security agencies. In response, the royal father assured the NAF of continuous support, declaring: “Together, we shall continue to build bridges of peace, development, and security for the benefit of our people and the progress of Nigeria as a whole”.
The visit marks a significant milestone in the evolving relationship between the Nigerian Air Force and Akwa Ibom State, as both parties reiterated their commitment to national development, regional security, and effective intergovernmental synergy.
