By Zainab Bakare
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has commended the Executive Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, for his visionary leadership and strategic investment in national security following the commissioning of the newly constructed Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Administrative Complex in Umuahia.
In a statement by the Special Adviser on Media to the Minister of Defence, Leah Katung-Babatunde, General Musa described the project as a practical demonstration of how state governments can contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s security architecture.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony alongside Governor Otti and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, the Minister said:
“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.”
He added that the facility would improve the effectiveness, operational planning, and readiness of the Nigerian Air Force.
Facility to Strengthen Military Coordination
According to the statement by Leah Katung-Babatunde, General Musa emphasised that modern military operations require efficient administrative structures to support coordination, personnel management, and strategic decision-making.
He commended officers, airmen, and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force for their dedication to protecting Nigeria’s airspace and supporting operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and crude oil theft.
Minister Charges Air Force Personnel on Civil-Military Relations
Addressing Air Force personnel deployed to Abia State, the Minister urged them to maintain strong and positive relationships with the civilian population.
“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.”
South East Security Summit Outcomes
General Musa linked the commissioning of the NAF complex to wider security efforts in the South East, including the 60th anniversary commemoration of the late Major General Aguiyi Ironsi and the recently concluded maiden South East Security Summit.
He assured residents that the resolutions reached at the summit would translate into practical actions.
“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.”
Governor Otti: Security Is a Right
Governor Alex Otti, in his address titled “Security Is a Right,” said the project reflects his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of Abia residents.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for supporting efforts that enabled the Nigerian Air Force to establish a stronger presence in the state.
Air Force Assures Effective Use of Facility
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, thanked Governor Otti for the initiative and assured that the facility and other assets provided to the Nigerian Air Force would be used responsibly.
He noted that the increased presence of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the region would strengthen security coverage and contribute to peace and stability across the South East.
