By Bavoriat Clara
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its expanded operational presence in the state, describing the development as a significant catalyst for enhanced security, investor confidence, and sustainable economic growth in the Niger Delta region.
The commendation was conveyed in a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, following the operational visit of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to Akwa Ibom State on 30 April 2026.
During a high-level engagement with the CAS, Governor Eno praised the NAF’s proactive and mission-oriented approach to security, noting that the establishment and operationalisation of the 309 Composite Group in Eket would serve as a strong deterrent to criminal activities, enhance the protection of critical national infrastructure, and strengthen stability across the state and the wider Niger Delta.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustained collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force, emphasizing that security remains fundamental to economic development. He noted that the operationalisation of the unit would significantly improve peace and economic activities within Akwa Ibom and beyond.
The visit also featured strategic engagements with key stakeholders and inspection of facilities at the 309 Composite Group, highlighting the NAF’s intensified efforts to neutralise threats and safeguard vital economic assets.
In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the Akwa Ibom State Government for its strong support in facilitating the establishment of the unit. He described the 309 Composite Group as a critical forward operating base for intelligence, surveillance, and rapid response operations, reaffirming the NAF’s commitment to delivering decisive airpower in support of national security objectives.
Also speaking, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshal M.N. Onyebashi, expressed confidence in the unit’s operational readiness following an inspection of its facilities. He assured that personnel remain committed to maintaining high standards of professionalism, discipline, and operational effectiveness in line with the directives of the Chief of the Air Staff.
The CAS also held consultations with the Paramount Ruler, His Royal Majesty Edidem Charles D. Abia, and other stakeholders in Eket, where he emphasised the importance of strengthened civil-military cooperation, noting that lasting security outcomes depend on trust, intelligence sharing, and active community participation.
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