Abeokuta, Ogun State – Governor Dapo Abiodun has called for the establishment of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in Ogun State to complement the state’s security architecture and industrial growth.
Abiodun also advocated for a Nigerian Air Force school in the state to nurture young citizens and raise morally sound children for the nation.
The governor made these requests during a meeting with a delegation from the Chief of Air Staff, led by Air Vice Marshal Enebong Effiom, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.
Security Boost & Aviation Development
The meeting was a follow-up to Abiodun’s discussions with Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff, in Abuja on Monday. The governor emphasized that the state government is ready to collaborate with the Air Force to enhance security and aviation growth in Ogun.
“Having an airport provides us with the opportunity to have the men and women of the Nigerian Air Force complement our security structure. My desire is not just to have the Air Force at the airport but also to have an Air Force base in Ogun State,” he said.
He highlighted Ogun’s strategic position as Nigeria’s industrial capital, noting that strengthening security is vital for economic growth and investor confidence.
Air Force School Proposal
Beyond security, Abiodun stressed the need for an Air Force school in Ogun State to help develop young citizens with discipline and career prospects in the Air Force.
“We are very passionate about this in Ogun. If we can nurture young ones in the right learning environment, they will better understand the career opportunities available in the Air Force,” he stated.
Immediate Support for Air Force Presence
To facilitate the immediate takeoff of the Air Force presence, the governor pledged to provide temporary offices and accommodation.
“I had offered one of our model schools that has not been put to use, to ease the burden of setting up a base. With the support of the Chief of Air Staff, we will have the Air Force presence at the airport almost immediately.”
He assured that a suitable office would be built at the airport, and accommodation provided for Air Force personnel stationed there.
Naval Base & Infrastructure Development
Abiodun also revealed that the Nigerian Navy has been allocated land in Ogun Waterside to establish a Naval base, with groundbreaking expected in a few weeks.
He outlined several projects his administration has undertaken to improve transportation and infrastructure, including:
- Road construction to link rail lines
- Expansion of the airport as part of the state’s master plan
With these developments, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing security, transportation, and economic opportunities for the state.