By Odita Sunday
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd.), has commended Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for constructing a new Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Administrative Complex in Umuahia, describing the project as a major boost to Nigeria’s security architecture.
Musa gave the commendation on Friday during the commissioning of the facility alongside Governor Otti and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, where he stressed that national security could only be achieved through collaboration among all levels of government and citizens.
According to the Minister, the new administrative complex would strengthen the operational effectiveness and readiness of the Nigerian Air Force.
”National security is a shared responsibility. 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.
Musa noted that modern military operations depend on efficient administrative infrastructure to improve coordination, personnel management and strategic decision-making, while applauding NAF officers, airmen and airwomen for their commitment to combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and crude oil theft across the country.
The Defence Minister also urged personnel deployed to Abia State to maintain cordial relations with residents and uphold professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
”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.
He linked the commissioning of the facility to ongoing efforts to improve security in the South-East, noting that it followed the 60th anniversary of the late Major General Aguiyi Ironsi and the maiden South-East Security Summit.
Musa assured that resolutions reached at the summit would be implemented to deliver lasting peace and economic growth in the region.
”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 added.
Speaking earlier, Governor Otti, in an address titled “Security is a Right,” said the project reflected his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property in Abia State.
He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for facilitating the establishment of a Nigerian Air Force presence in the state, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening regional security.
In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Aneke, expressed appreciation to the governor for the gesture and assured that the Air Force would make effective use of the facility and other assets provided.
He added that the operational presence of the Armed Forces in Abia would enhance security coverage across the South-East.
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