By Our Reporter
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has established its first permanent presence in Abia following the handover of newly constructed office and residential facilities, alongside 120 hectares of land, by the Abia State Government.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the development as a historic milestone during the handover ceremony held on Thursday.
The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. O.A. Ihejirika (Rtd), and other dignitaries.
Aneke commended the Abia State Governor, Alex Chioma Otti, for supporting efforts to strengthen security and promote development in the state.
He said the facilities included a modern office complex, a 21-unit self-contained accommodation block, a four-bedroom duplex, two residential blocks comprising six three-bedroom flats and 12 two-bedroom flats, as well as a Certificate of Occupancy for 120 hectares of land at Nsulu.
The CAS said the investment represented more than physical infrastructure, describing it as a strategic contribution that would enhance NAF’s operational effectiveness in the South-East.
According to him, the project will also create opportunities for socio-economic growth and strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
Aneke said the allocated land offered significant potential for specialised military training and other advanced operational courses.
He disclosed that the Air Force would explore the establishment of a military training institution in Abia, subject to the required approvals.
According to him, such a facility would boost national defence capability while creating educational, social and economic opportunities for the state.
“Our presence in Abia is about more than expanding operational reach; it is about strengthening security, supporting national development and building enduring partnerships,” he said.
Otti said the handover reflected his administration’s belief that security remained the foundation for sustainable development and lasting prosperity.
He expressed confidence that the permanent NAF presence would strengthen peace and stability, improve public confidence and support the state’s economic aspirations.
The governor said the partnership with the Air Force demonstrated the state’s commitment to creating a secure environment for investment, growth and the well-being of its people.
Aneke also described the initiative as an outstanding example of effective civil-military collaboration and strategic partnership in advancing national security.
He assured the governor and residents that the NAF would utilise the facilities responsibly and professionally in the service of peace, security and national development.
The CAS said the development would enhance the Air Force’s operational responsiveness to emerging security challenges while reinforcing efforts to protect lives and property in the South-East.
He added that it also underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the military and sub-national governments in promoting peace, stability and national development.
