By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commissioned an industrial borehole project at Ohe Community in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State, as part of its Special Intervention and Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) designed to improve the wellbeing of Nigerians and foster stronger civil-military relations.
The project, inaugurated on 16 October 2025, features a 35,000-litre overhead water tank to provide clean and safe water for residents of the community. The initiative reflects the NAF’s commitment to extending its impact beyond military operations by addressing the basic needs of host communities across the country.
According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, who was represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, said the project forms part of ongoing efforts by the Service to promote peace, mutual trust, and cooperation with civilians.
Air Marshal Abubakar stated that civil-military relations play a crucial role in national stability, as they encourage collaboration between the armed forces and local populations while discouraging actions that undermine peace and unity. He added that the upgrade of the Directorate of Civil-Military Relations to a full-fledged Branch in May 2024 demonstrates the NAF’s evolving role in humanitarian engagement, gender advocacy, and grievance redress mechanisms.
The CAS commended Air Vice Marshal Pius Oguega Oahimire, an indigene of Ohe Community, for initiating a project that directly addresses the needs of his people, urging residents to take ownership of the facility and ensure its proper maintenance.
Air Marshal Abubakar reaffirmed the Service’s dedication to improving the quality of life in communities where NAF personnel live and operate, stressing that such interventions contribute to lasting peace and stability.
The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Gani Audu, served as the Special Guest of Honour at the event. He commended the NAF for extending its development-driven initiatives to rural communities, describing the project as a testament to the Service’s genuine commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.
In his remarks, AVM Oahimire, who coordinated the project, expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Air Staff for his continued support for community-focused initiatives. He noted that access to clean water remains essential for human health and development, adding that the NAF’s intervention would have a lasting positive impact on the people of Ohe.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, senior NAF officers, and residents, who all expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force for its enduring commitment to national development through people-oriented projects.
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