By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force has lauded the Akwa Ibom State Government for its strategic contribution to national security through the donation of land for the establishment of a Forward Operational Base (FOB), a move expected to bolster air operations and maritime security in the South-South region.
The commendation was made by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, during a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, in Uyo on Wednesday, 31 July 2025. The visit, according to a statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, marks a major milestone in civil-military collaboration aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s security infrastructure.
Air Marshal Abubakar described the land donation as a pivotal gesture that will accelerate the development of critical operational infrastructure and boost the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) capabilities in projecting air power and conducting maritime security operations in a region vital to national stability. “The FOB, when established, 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,” the CAS said.
He emphasized that the initiative was not merely about the establishment of a military base, but a larger investment in Nigeria’s future. “Your proactive disposition to issues of security and development speaks volumes,” Air Marshal Abubakar told Governor Eno. “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.”
The Air Chief further reassured residents of the state that the NAF remained fully committed to safeguarding lives and property. He stressed that the growing presence of the Air Force in Akwa Ibom would complement existing security structures and significantly boost investor confidence, especially within the Gulf of Guinea corridor where maritime threats and transnational crimes pose persistent challenges.
In response, Governor Umo Bassey Eno expressed gratitude for the CAS’s visit and reaffirmed the state government’s support for the Nigerian Air Force. He described the occasion as a reaffirmation of Akwa Ibom’s rising strategic relevance in Nigeria’s broader defence landscape. “We believe that a safe and secure society is the bedrock of development,” the governor stated. “And we are glad to partner with the NAF to achieve that objective.”
The CAS also paid a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Majesty, Obong Edidem Charles D. Abia, FCA (Attah Ekid Afid), the Paramount Ruler of Eket Local Government Area. During the visit, Air Marshal Abubakar acknowledged the significant role traditional rulers play in facilitating peace, supporting security agencies, and promoting community cooperation. He stressed that such grassroots support is indispensable to maintaining regional stability and enhancing civil-military synergy.
In his remarks, Obong Edidem Abia welcomed the CAS and praised the Nigerian Air Force for expanding its operational footprint in Akwa Ibom and the South-South region at large. He assured the Air Chief of continued cooperation from traditional institutions. “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,” he said.
The visit concluded with renewed commitments from both the Nigerian Air Force and the Akwa Ibom State Government to deepen collaboration in national development, regional peacebuilding, and operational efficiency, particularly within the strategic Gulf of Guinea zone.
