Gov Otti Commissions Air Force Administrative Complex, Hands Over Ultra-Modern Facility to Nigerian Air Force in Umuahia 

By Ezechukwu Adimoha

Governor Alex Otti has officially commissioned and handed over the Air Force Administrative Complex, tastefully built and furnished with state-of-the-art facilities by the Abia State Government for the use of the Nigerian Air Force in Umuahia.

Speaking during the event, Governor Otti described the completion and handover of the complex as another bold step taken by his administration towards ensuring that every part of the state remains safe from all forms of security threats.

The Governor described the presence of the Nigerian Air Force in Abia State as a dream come true, noting that it completes the footprint of the nation’s armed forces in the state, alongside the Goodluck Jonathan Barracks in Ohafia and the Nigerian Navy College of Accounts and Finance, Owerrinta.

Governor Otti also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, for their support and goodwill towards the state.

He disclosed that his administration has allocated 120 hectares of land to the Nigerian Air Force at the proposed Abia Airport in Nsulu, with plans to commence the Air Force Base project as soon as the airport runway is completed.

In his address, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), congratulated the Abia State Government for the initiative, describing it as a reflection of the state’s appreciation of the vital role the Armed Forces play in preserving Nigeria’s peace, unity, and territorial integrity.

He said the project is a practical demonstration of partnership and an excellent example of how state governments can contribute meaningfully to strengthening the nation’s security architecture. He commended Governor Otti for the gesture and urged personnel of the Nigerian Air Force to maintain the highest level of civil-military relations with the people while deepening security across the state.

Also speaking, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the new facility would significantly enhance security, expand operational reach, and transform the socio-economic landscape of the South-East. He also announced the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to exploring the establishment of a military training school in Abia State.

Air Marshal Aneke described Governor Otti as a trailblazer and a visionary leader who has consistently translated ideas into reality, adding that his administration would be remembered as a driving force behind a safer, stronger, and more resilient Abia State.

In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, retired Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah, noted that Governor Otti has remained committed to the constitutional responsibility of government to guarantee the security of lives and property. He commended the Governor for making security a top priority since assuming office in 2023.

The event was attended by the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Meribole; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, senior government officials; and top military officers. It featured the inspection of the newly commissioned complex by Governor Otti and other dignitaries.