NAF ESTABLISHES BASE ABIA

NAF to Establish Permanent Base in Abia State Following Meeting Between CAS and Governor Alex Otti

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to establish a permanent presence in Abia State. This decision was announced after a meeting between the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, and Governor Alex Otti of Abia State at his residence in Mvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, on June 7, 2024. According to Air Marshal Abubakar, the NAF presence will enhance airspace security and support emergency response, disaster management, and community development initiatives in the state. He emphasized the NAF's commitment to extending its operational reach in response to national security needs, particularly in Abia State and the Southeast Region.

Air Marshal Abubakar also addressed the tragic incident at Obikabia Junction in Obingwa Local Government Area in May 2024, which resulted in the loss of soldiers' lives and disrupted local livelihoods. He assured that the perpetrators would be brought to justice soon.

The CAS praised Governor Otti's dedication to public service and effective governance aimed at improving the living standards of Abia State residents. "We admire your people-oriented governance and judicious management of public resources, fostering sustainable growth and prosperity for Abians," he remarked.

Governor Otti welcomed the establishment of a NAF base in Abia State, noting its timeliness given the Federal Government's recent approval of an airstrip in the state. He mentioned that the designated land for the airstrip is sufficient to accommodate the NAF base, which the state government is eager to allocate. To facilitate the base's immediate operationalization within the next two months, Governor Otti promised to provide a temporary site in Umuahia, along with residential accommodation, mobility, and other necessary support. He highlighted that the NAF's presence would enhance the efforts of other security agencies in the state.

Regarding the May 2024 incident, Governor Otti announced an increase in the bounty for the perpetrators from N25 million to N30 million, thanks to an additional N5 million donation from a state resident in the United States. He urged all citizens to cooperate with security agencies to eradicate criminal elements and restore peace in the state.

Edward Gabkwet  

Air Vice Marshal  

Director of Public Relations and Information  

Nigerian Air Force.