Akwa Ibom Governor donates land to Nigerian Air Force, pledges continued support
Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has donated a piece of land for the construction of barracks for the Nigerian Air Force’s Forward Operational Base (FOB) in the State.
The Governor made the donation during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, to the Government House in Uyo on Thursday, 31 July 2025.
Governor Eno, who presented the official land documents to the NAF boss, said his administration is committed to strengthening security across the State and will continue to support all security agencies.
He explained that the new base will help the Air Force become more involved in the State’s security structure, especially in protecting Akwa Ibom’s coastal and national boundaries.
“We are grateful for the Air Force base that is being established in Akwa Ibom. Until now, the Air Force had only a minimal presence in the State. With this new forward base, they are now fully part of our security setup,” the Governor said.
He stressed that Akwa Ibom is one of the most peaceful States in Nigeria and promised to continue working closely with all security agencies to maintain that record.
The Governor also praised the high standards of the Air Force School in the State and appealed for more spaces to accommodate children from Akwa Ibom.
In response, Air Marshal Abubakar thanked the Governor for his continued support and the land donation, which he described as a major boost to national defence and internal security.
He said the new base, located close to the Eket Airstrip, would speed up the development of critical infrastructure needed for operations. He also commended the State Government for transferring the airstrip to the Nigerian Air Force.
“This Forward Operational Base will improve the safety and security of lives and property, while also boosting Akwa Ibom’s appeal as a destination for investment and tourism,” Air Marshal Abubakar said.
He added that the Air Force’s presence would protect key national assets such as the Floating LNG Plant, the Ibom Deep Sea Port, and the BUA Refinery, all of which hold great economic importance for Nigeria.
The Air Chief thanked the Governor for his hospitality and assured him of the Air Force’s full cooperation in supporting the State’s development and security goals under the ARISE Agenda.
