The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has established its first permanent presence in Abia State following the handover of newly constructed office and residential facilities, as well as 120 hectares of land, by the Abia State Government.
The ceremony marked a major milestone in the Air Force’s efforts to strengthen national security and expand its operational footprint across Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the development as a historic achievement for both the Nigerian Air Force and Abia State.
According to him, the facilities and land will significantly improve the NAF’s operational capacity in the South-East while supporting national security and regional development.
“The investment goes beyond physical infrastructure. It represents a strategic contribution to Nigeria’s security architecture and provides a strong foundation for the Nigerian Air Force to carry out its constitutional responsibilities more effectively,” he said.
The facilities handed over include a modern office complex, a block of 21 self-contained accommodation units, a four-bedroom duplex, two residential blocks containing six three-bedroom flats and 12 two-bedroom flats. The state government also presented the Certificate of Occupancy for 120 hectares of land located at Nsulu.
Air Marshal Aneke said the vast land could support future military projects, including specialised training facilities. He disclosed that the Air Force would explore the possibility of establishing a military training institution in Abia, subject to the necessary approvals.
He added that the permanent presence of the Air Force would improve security, strengthen partnerships with local communities and contribute to the state’s socio-economic development.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, said his administration remained committed to supporting security agencies because peace and security are essential for sustainable development.
According to the governor, establishing a permanent Nigerian Air Force presence in the state will enhance public safety, strengthen investor confidence and create an environment that supports economic growth.
“Our commitment to supporting the Nigerian Air Force reflects our conviction that a secure environment is indispensable for investment, growth and the well-being of our people,” Otti said.
The Chief of the Air Staff also commended Governor Otti for what he described as visionary leadership and a strong commitment to improving security through effective collaboration with the Armed Forces.
He assured the state government that the Nigerian Air Force would make responsible use of the facilities while maintaining professionalism in carrying out its constitutional duties.
The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General O.A. Ihejirika (retd.), and other senior government and military officials.
The establishment of a permanent NAF presence in Abia is expected to improve the military’s response to security challenges in the South-East while strengthening civil-military cooperation and supporting national security objectives.
