By Bavoriat Clara
The Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Abuja, where he commended the Service for its sustained security operations and support to the state.
Governor Makinde expressed appreciation on behalf of the Government and people of Oyo State for the critical role the NAF continues to play in strengthening security and promoting development across the state.
He congratulated Air Marshal Aneke on his appointment as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff and lauded his leadership in enhancing air operations nationwide. The Governor also acknowledged the airlift support provided by the NAF during the Oyo State 50th Anniversary celebration, describing it as a strong example of effective civil-military cooperation.
Highlighting the existing security collaboration, the Governor noted that the Commander of the NAF Detachment in Ibadan is an active member of the State Security Council, contributing to intelligence sharing and coordinated security responses.
He affirmed that relations between NAF personnel and the civilian population in Oyo State have remained cordial and mutually beneficial, assuring the CAS of the state government’s continued support in achieving shared security objectives.
In his remarks, Air Marshal Aneke congratulated the Government and people of Oyo State on their Golden Jubilee celebration and commended the ongoing infrastructure transformation in Ibadan. He observed that such development efforts strengthen the security architecture of the South-West and provide a modern platform for the projection of air power.
The Chief of the Air Staff expressed appreciation for the Oyo State Government’s consistent support to the Nigerian Air Force, including the allocation of land at Ibadan Airport for a Forward Operating Base, provision of land for a new NAF Base at Ajia, and financial assistance toward the construction of new barracks.
He reaffirmed that the partnership between the NAF and Oyo State Government remains essential to safeguarding lives and property while promoting sustainable development in the region.
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