NAF to Establish Forward Operating Base in Akwa Ibom for Security and Oil Protection

The Nigeria Air Force (NAF) has expressed its commitment to addressing the growing security challenges in the country, including insurgency, oil theft, and maritime crimes, particularly in the coastal areas of Akwa Ibom State and the Gulf of Guinea region.

During a courtesy visit to Governor Umo Eno at the Government House in Uyo, Air Commodore A.H. Idris, leading the NAF delegation, emphasized the need for cooperation from the Akwa Ibom State government in establishing a new operational base in the coastal area of Eket Local Government Area.

Idris explained that the proposed base would serve as a Forward Operating Base to enhance national security, safeguard the country’s territorial integrity, protect critical oil assets, and contribute to the development of a sustainable blue economy.

In response, Governor Eno assured the NAF of his administration’s full support in the establishment of the base. He stressed that the Akwa Ibom government is committed to maintaining peace and security and that the presence of the Air Force would significantly complement the state’s overall security infrastructure.

Governor Eno highlighted that while the state has benefited from the presence of the Army and Navy, the NAF has had a minimal presence. He expressed his gratitude to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, for choosing Akwa Ibom as the location for the new operational base, emphasizing the importance of expanding the Air Force’s footprint in the region.