Governor Alex Otti has approved 100 hectares of land for the Nigerian Air Force to establish a training base at the Abia Airport Project Site. Also marking a major step in strengthening security infrastructure in Abia State.
The approval granted on Tuesday, March 10, when the governor received a delegation from the Air Force Base Ground Training Command led by Adebayo Gabriel Kehinde at the Government House.
Expansion of Air Force Facility
The Nigerian Air Force had earlier allocated 50 hectares of land for its operations at the airport project site. However, the military requested additional land to expand its presence and develop a larger facility.
Responding to the request, Governor Otti approved 100 hectares. Stating that the state government fully supports the establishment of the Air Force base for training.
The governor described the project as a strategic move that will not only strengthen security in Abia State but also improve military operations across the Southeast region.
Abia Airport Runway to Be Ready Soon
During the meeting, Otti also provided an update on the progress of the Abia Airport project. Also assuring the delegation that the runway will be completed soon.
According to him, the airport project is a joint partnership between the Abia State Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
- The Abia State Government is responsible for constructing the runway.
- The Federal Government will handle the development of the airport terminal.
The governor expressed optimism that once the runway is completed, other components of the airport infrastructure will follow.
Support for Military Operations
Governor Otti also pledged continued support for the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies operating in the state.
He assured the Air Force delegation that renovation work on its office and facilities in Abia. Would be completed before the end of April, allowing the Chief of Air Staff to officially commission the building.
The governor further urged the Air Force to maintain close collaboration with the state government to tackle crime and strengthen security across the state.
Air Force Praises Abia’s Security Efforts
Speaking during the visit, Air Vice Marshal Kehinde commended the Abia State government for its proactive approach to security.
He noted that reports received by the Air Force indicate that Abia has recorded significant improvements in security. Thereby making it stand out among other states in the Southeast.
Kehinde also revealed that the proposed facility could include a Special Forces Training Centre focused on jungle warfare operations. Which would significantly improve operational readiness and strengthen regional security.
Boost for Regional Security
Security analysts say the establishment of a Nigerian Air Force training base in Abia could play a major role in improving security coordination in the Southeast.
Once completed, the project is expected to enhance military training, increase surveillance capacity, and strengthen efforts to combat criminal activities in the region.
