NAF Secures Strategic Foothold In South-South As Akwa Ibom Donates Land For Forward Base
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to bolster its presence in the South-South as the Akwa Ibom State Government donates land for the establishment of a Forward Operational Base (FOB), marking a major leap in the fight against maritime insecurity and transnational threats in the Gulf of Guinea region.
During a courtesy visit to Governor Umo Bassey Eno in Uyo, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, described the gesture as a “landmark contribution to Nigeria’s defence architecture.”
The base, he said, would play a vital role in safeguarding lives, stimulating investment, and cementing Akwa Ibom’s status as a tourism and economic hub.
“This partnership goes beyond air operations,” Abubakar noted. “It’s an investment in Nigeria’s future, in our national resilience, and in the prosperity of this region.”
The new FOB is expected to enhance air power projection and reinforce Nigeria’s maritime security posture in a region increasingly under threat from piracy, oil theft, and other cross-border crimes. Abubakar also emphasised the NAF’s commitment to fostering intergovernmental synergy for sustained national development.
Governor Eno, in response, pledged continued collaboration with the Air Force, stressing that “security is everyone’s responsibility.” He welcomed the CAS’s visit as a sign of Akwa Ibom’s growing relevance to national security efforts.
The Air Marshal also paid homage to the traditional ruler of Eket, His Royal Majesty Obong Edidem Charles D. Abia, who commended the NAF’s expanding role in the region and reaffirmed traditional institutions’ support for peace and development.
The visit marks a significant milestone in strengthening ties between the Nigerian Air Force and Akwa Ibom State — a partnership poised to deliver real impact across security, economy, and regional stability.
Follow the Savinews Africa channel on WhatsApp: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VawgaEL5vKA9Y5XTFg0n]
