Bomba Dauda
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has praised Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, for his commitment to strengthening national security through the construction of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Administrative Complex in Umuahia.
Speaking on Friday at the commissioning of the facility alongside Governor Otti and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the minister described the project as a strategic investment that would enhance the operational effectiveness and administrative capacity of the Nigerian Air Force.
General Musa said national security was a collective responsibility that required collaboration among the federal, state and local governments, security agencies and citizens.
“While the Armed Forces are constitutionally mandated to defend the nation, achieving lasting peace and stability requires active collaboration among all tiers of government, security agencies, and citizens. This facility is an important investment in the effectiveness, operational planning, and readiness of the Nigerian Air Force,” he said.
The minister noted that modern military operations depended on efficient administrative infrastructure to improve coordination, personnel management and strategic decision-making. He also commended officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force for their role in combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and crude oil theft across the country.
Addressing Air Force personnel posted to Abia State, General Musa urged them to maintain professionalism and foster cordial relations with the host communities.
“I want to charge the Air Force personnel coming here to make Abia State a better place. We do not want to hear that you are causing problems for the civilian population. Abia is good, make it better, and ensure your presence brings peace and safety to the people,” he said.
The minister linked the commissioning of the facility to broader efforts aimed at improving security in the South-East, noting that it followed the 60th anniversary commemoration of the late Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi and the recently concluded maiden South-East Security Summit.
He assured residents that resolutions reached at the summit would be implemented, stressing that the gathering would produce concrete outcomes rather than remain a mere discussion forum.
“What we are promising is that the South East Security Summit will not be just a talk show. Whatever was agreed upon will be fully implemented to guarantee long-term peace and economic prosperity,” he said.
Governor Otti, in a speech titled “Security is a Right,” said the project reflected his administration’s determination to safeguard lives and property in the state. He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for supporting the establishment of a Nigerian Air Force presence in Abia State.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Aneke, thanked the Abia State Government for the facility and pledged that the Nigerian Air Force would make judicious use of the complex and other assets provided. He added that the increased military presence would further strengthen security coverage across the South-East.
