The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has lauded the Akwa Ibom State Government for its steadfast commitment to national defence following the generous donation of land for the establishment of barracks accommodation to support a Forward Operational Base (FOB). The new FOB is strategically located to enhance Nigeria’s air power projection and maritime security operations within the South-South, a region critical to national and regional security.
The visit marked a significant milestone in the evolving partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and Akwa Ibom State, with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to national development, regional security, and operational synergy, especially within the Gulf of Guinea theatre.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, in Uyo on 31 July 2025, Air Marshal Abubakar described the gesture as pivotal to accelerating the development of critical operational infrastructure.
According to him, the base will not only boost national security and defence capabilities, but also support civil commerce, investment, and tourism across the coastal region. In his response, Governor Umo Bassey Eno expressed appreciation for the CAS’s visit, describing it as a testament to Akwa Ibom’s rising strategic importance in Nigeria’s security architecture.
As part of the visit, the CAS also paid a courtesy call on the palace of His Royal Majesty, Obong Edidem Charles D. Abia, FCA (Attah Ekid Afid), the Paramount Ruler of Eket Local Government Area. In his remarks, Obong Edidem Abia commended the Nigerian Air Force for its expanding footprint in the region and pledged continued support from the traditional institution.
