Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of the Nigerian Air Force, underscored the need for intensified efforts to eliminate criminal elements in Delta State and its surroundings during a meeting with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the Government House in Asaba on June 5, 2024. This visit marks a significant step towards bolstering civil-military cooperation in the region.
Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted that fostering peace and security is essential for socio-economic development. “Without a peaceful environment, meaningful development will be difficult to attain, adversely affecting the livelihoods of ordinary citizens,” he stated. He urged the residents of Delta State to continue their support and collaboration with security forces to ensure a safer community.
During the discussion, Air Marshal Abubakar expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his unwavering support to the Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). He praised the Governor’s dedication to enhancing security in the state over the past year, noting that it has created a more favorable environment for sustained growth and development. “The priority Your Excellency has given to security has fostered a conducive atmosphere for socio-economic progress in Delta State,” he remarked.
A significant highlight of the visit was the presentation of a Certificate of Occupancy by Governor Oborevwori for a 66.6-hectare plot of land at Osubi, allocated for the development of a new NAF base. This allocation marks a landmark event in the history of Delta State’s relationship with the NAF. Air Marshal Abubakar acknowledged this gesture as a pivotal moment for both the state and the Air Force, paving the way for the establishment of the base.
Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the NAF’s operations and combating insecurity. He praised the NAF for its efforts in addressing security challenges nationwide and highlighted the strong partnership between Delta State and the NAF. The Governor also promised to begin constructing the access road to the new base site, demonstrating his commitment to making the project a reality. Additionally, he announced plans to allocate land for a Post-Service Housing Scheme to benefit retiring NAF personnel.
In his remarks, Governor Oborevwori condemned the tragic incident in March 2024, which resulted in the deaths of Nigerian Army personnel in Okuama Village. He emphasized the need for continued cooperation to prevent such occurrences and ensure the safety of all residents.
The meeting concluded with the formal handover of the Certificate of Occupancy for the new NAF base, solidifying the ongoing collaboration between Delta State and the Nigerian Air Force in their joint effort to maintain peace and security in the region.