Air Chief Strengthens NAF Presence In Niger Delta, Commissions New Training Institute In Bayelsa
Security and stability in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta received a strategic boost on Wednesday as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reinforced the Nigerian Air Force’s operational presence in Bayelsa State.
During a high-level operational visit to Yenagoa, Air Marshal Aneke engaged personnel of the Headquarters Mobility Command and other collocated Nigerian Air Force (NAF) units, commissioned key infrastructure projects and inaugurated the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Administrative Management (NAFIAM).
The visit forms part of the Air Chief’s nationwide operational tour aimed at assessing operational readiness, enhancing personnel welfare and strengthening partnerships vital to national security.
While in Bayelsa, the CAS paid a courtesy visit to Governor Douye Diri, stressing the importance of sustained civil-military cooperation in safeguarding the Niger Delta.
“Bayelsa State occupies a strategic place within Nigeria’s security and economic architecture.
The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to working closely with the state government and other stakeholders to ensure the protection of lives, critical national assets and sustained peace across the region,” Aneke said.
Governor Diri commended the Air Force for its role in maintaining stability and protecting oil and gas infrastructure, noting that the establishment of the new training institute in Yenagoa would strengthen cooperation between the state and the military while building professional capacity.
At the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe, the Commander, Rear Admiral O.B.F. Oladipo, also praised the Nigerian Air Force for its strong operational support, particularly its intelligence, surveillance and air mobility capabilities which have boosted efforts against economic sabotage in the region.
A major highlight of the visit was the inauguration of NAFIAM, which will provide specialised training in administration, management and public relations for personnel, while also promoting broader civil–military engagement.
The Air Chief also commissioned the residence of the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command and performed the groundbreaking for additional infrastructure within the base.
Addressing officers, airmen and airwomen during a durbar, Air Marshal Aneke described Mobility Command as the “logistical engine room” of the Nigerian Air Force, noting that its airlift capability enables the service to project decisive air power across the country.
He commended personnel for their professionalism and dedication, while the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal Michael Onyebashi, assured the CAS of the command’s continued commitment to discipline and operational readiness.
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