The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has established a Forward Operational Base (FOB) in Akwa Ibom State to strengthen air power projection and maritime security across the South-South region, particularly within the Gulf of Guinea corridor.
The development was announced by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, during a courtesy visit to Governor Umo Eno in Uyo. According to a statement released on Friday by NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the FOB is part of ongoing efforts to enhance national security infrastructure.
Abubakar said the state government’s donation of land for the new base represented a “major boost to Nigeria’s security posture” and praised the partnership as critical to fostering safety, investment, and development.
“The base will further assure the safety and security of persons and property and foster Akwa Ibom as a destination for investment and tourism,” the CAS stated.
He added that the FOB would not only reinforce existing security frameworks but also improve investor confidence and civil aviation support within the region.
Strengthening National and Regional Security
The Gulf of Guinea, known for its strategic economic and maritime significance, has faced persistent security challenges, including piracy, oil theft, and illegal fishing. Abubakar emphasized that the new base would play a vital role in addressing these threats while enhancing NAF’s operational reach.
“This initiative aligns with our commitment to safeguard the lives and property of all Nigerians while promoting peace and economic stability across our air and maritime domains,” he said.
State Government Pledges Ongoing Support
In response, Governor Umo Eno expressed appreciation for the Air Force’s increased presence and reiterated Akwa Ibom’s commitment to national security efforts.
“We believe that a safe and secure society is the bedrock of development, and we are glad to partner with the NAF to achieve that objective,” the governor said.
He noted that the establishment of the FOB reflects Akwa Ibom’s growing strategic role in Nigeria’s evolving security architecture and pledged continued support for NAF’s operations in the state.
The new FOB joins a growing network of security installations across the country aimed at improving response times, intelligence gathering, and regional stability, particularly in Nigeria’s coastal and oil-producing zones.
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