The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians, including those residing in Akwa Ibom.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, in Uyo, Abubakar lauded the Akwa Ibom State Government for its steadfast commitment to national defence following the generous donation of land for the establishment of barracks accommodation to support a Forward Operational Base, FOB.
According to a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, at the headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force, the new FOB is strategically located to enhance Nigeria’s air power projection and maritime security operations within the South-South, a region critical to national and regional security.
He described the gesture as pivotal to accelerating the development of critical operational infrastructure, adding that the base would not only boost national security and defence capabilities but also support civil commerce, investment, and tourism across the coastal region.
“The FOB, when established,” Abubakar noted, “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.”
He added that deepening collaboration between the Nigerian Air Force and the Akwa Ibom State Government reflects responsible governance and productive intergovernmental synergy.
“Your Excellency,” he said, “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 emphasised that the airforce’s growing presence in the region would reinforce existing security structures and boost investor confidence, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea corridor, where maritime threats and transnational crimes continue to challenge national stability.
In his response, Governor Umo Bassey Eno expressed appreciation for the CAS’s visit, describing it as a testament to Akwa Ibom’s rising strategic importance in Nigeria’s security architecture.
He pledged sustained support for the Nigerian Air Force, affirming that security is a collective responsibility.
“We believe that a safe and secure society is the bedrock of development, and we are glad to partner with the Nigerian Air Force to achieve that objective,” the governor stated.
