By Princely Onyenwe | News Desk
Barely 24 hours after the official commissioning and handover of the first-ever Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Administrative Complex in Umuahia, the Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening security architecture with plans to establish a permanent Nigerian Air Force Base at the ongoing Abia Airport project in Nsulu.
Governor Alex Otti disclosed that the newly commissioned administrative complex, handed over to the Federal Government yesterday, marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to strengthen national security and protect lives and property.
The governor described security as a fundamental right of every citizen, stressing that his administration considers the safety of residents and investors a non-negotiable priority.
According to him, the arrival of the Nigerian Air Force completes the presence of Nigeria’s three major armed services in Abia State.
Gov Otti has maintained that while the Nigerian Army already operates from Ohafia and the Nigerian Navy maintains a presence in Owerinta, the establishment of the Air Force in Umuahia is expected to improve coordinated military operations and enhance rapid response to emerging security threats.
Beyond its security significance, Otti said the project is expected to boost economic activities, attract investments, generate employment opportunities for young people, and strengthen the foundation for sustainable development across the state.
The governor further revealed that his administration has already allocated land within the ongoing Abia Airport project at Nsulu for the development of a permanent Nigerian Air Force Base, describing the move as a strategic investment that will guarantee the long-term operational presence of the Air Force in the state.
Otti expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Chief of the Air Staff for their support and collaboration, noting that the project demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnership between the Federal Government and sub-national governments.
Governor Otti also assured officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force of the state’s full cooperation as they carry out their constitutional responsibility of protecting lives, property, and Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Speaking with 9News Nigeria (Owerri) who covered the news in Umuahia, some security experts spotted during the commissioning said the combined presence of the Army, Navy, and Air Force in Abia could significantly improve intelligence sharing, strengthen regional security coordination, and boost investor confidence, especially at a time when South-East states continue to pursue improved security as a catalyst for economic growth.
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