The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has 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).
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.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, in Uyo on 31 July 2025, Air Marshal Abubakar described the gesture as pivotal to accelerating the development of critical operational infrastructure.
According to him, the base will not only boost national security and defence capabilities, but also support civil commerce, investment, and tourism across the coastal region.
“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.”
He added that deepening collaboration between the NAF and the Akwa Ibom State Government reflects responsible governance and productive intergovernmental synergy, 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.”
Air Marshal Abubakar further reaffirmed the NAF’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians, including those residing in Akwa Ibom.
He emphasised that the NAF’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,” the Governor stated, “and we are glad to partner with the NAF to achieve that objective.”
As part of the visit, the CAS also paid a courtesy call on the palace of His Royal Majesty, Obong Edidem Charles D. Abia, FCA (Attah Ekid Afid), the Paramount Ruler of Eket Local Government Area.
Air Marshal Abubakar acknowledged the vital role of traditional institutions in sustaining cooperation with security agencies, noting that such support is essential for regional stability and social harmony.
In his remarks, Obong Edidem Abia commended the Nigerian Air Force for its expanding footprint in the region and pledged continued support from the traditional institution. “Together,” he said, “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.”
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force disclosed in a statement that the visit marked a significant milestone in the evolving partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and Akwa Ibom State, with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to national development, regional security, and operational synergy, especially within the Gulf of Guinea theatre.
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