By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has brought new life to Anipupo Community in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State with the commissioning of critical infrastructure projects, including 30 solar-powered streetlights, an industrial borehole, and a 35,000-litre water storage facility.
The Special Intervention/Quick Impact Project, inaugurated on 26 August 2025 in honour of Air Vice Marshal Abidemi Timothy Marquis, is part of the NAF’s ongoing Civil-Military Relations (CMR) drive to enhance the living conditions of rural communities while strengthening mutual trust and cooperation essential for national security.
In an official statement, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, explained that the project reflects the Force’s broader commitment under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda to complement military operations with people-oriented initiatives.
Speaking at the commissioning, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, stressed that the Nigerian Air Force must continue to look beyond combat roles to deliver meaningful social impact.
“Projects like this resonate deeply with our non-kinetic operations. By providing clean water and lighting up the community, we are not only improving livelihoods but also reinforcing the bond of trust between the Nigerian Air Force and the people we serve,” the CAS said.
In his welcome address, Air Vice Marshal Marquis, in whose honour the project was delivered, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the NAF for prioritising his hometown. He described the intervention as a shared victory for Anipupo and a testament to what collective purpose can achieve. “This initiative should not be seen as a short-term intervention but as a seed that must grow into lasting development,” Marquis said, while urging the community to protect and sustain the facilities.
The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented at the event by the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, applauded the Nigerian Air Force for what he described as a “shining example of partnership that transforms lives.” He praised Air Marshal Abubakar for extending the initiative to Anipupo in honour of an illustrious son of the community, Air Vice Marshal Marquis.
“The generous construction of an industrial borehole, water tank, and solar streetlights is a shining example of the kind of collaboration and partnership that can transform the lives of our citizens. This project aligns perfectly with my government’s grassroots development agenda, which seeks sustainable growth and an improved standard of living for all citizens in Ogun State,” Governor Abiodun said.
He also commended AVM Marquis for his distinguished service to Nigeria and commitment to community upliftment, while urging Anipupo residents to use the facilities responsibly and partner with security agencies to sustain peace in the area.
The well-attended event drew community leaders, stakeholders, and residents, who hailed the Nigerian Air Force for reaching beyond its core military mandate to provide essential social amenities that directly impact everyday life.
