The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, has charged the Nigerian Air Force personnel deployed to the Abia State to secure the state and not cause problem for residents but to make the state better.

“I want to charge the Air Force personnel coming here to make Abia State a better place. We do not want to hear that you are causing problems for the civilian population. Abia is good—make it better, and ensure your presence brings peace and safety to the people,” the Minister said.

Musa spoke on Friday while commissioning newly constructed office and residential accommodation donated by the Abia Government for the establishment of a permanent NAF presence in the state.

Alongside the accommodation, the state government also donated 120 hectares of land to the Service.

Musa described the project as a practical demonstration of how state governments can meaningfully strengthen Nigeria’s national security architecture.

National security is a shared responsibility,” he said. “While the Armed Forces are constitutionally mandated to defend the nation, achieving lasting peace and stability requires active collaboration among all tiers of government, security agencies, and citizens. This facility is an important investment in the effectiveness, operational planning, and readiness of the Nigerian Air Force.”

Musa stressed that modern military operations rely heavily on efficient administrative facilities to enhance coordination, improve personnel management, and support strategic decision-making.

He lauded the officers, airmen, and airwomen of the NAF for their dedication to defending Nigeria’s airspace and supporting joint operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and crude oil theft.

The Minister charged Air Force personnel deployed to the state to make Abia better. “I want to charge the Air Force personnel coming here to make Abia State a better place. We do not want to hear that you are causing problems for the civilian population. Abia is good—make it better, and ensure your presence brings peace and safety to the people.”

He linked the commissioning to broader security initiatives in the region, noting that it follows the landmark 60th anniversary commemoration of the late Maj.-Gen. Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi (rtd), and the recently concluded maiden South East Security Summit.

In his remarks at the occasion, the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, described the handover as a demonstration of his administration’s firm belief that security remains the foundation for sustainable development and lasting prosperity.

He expressed confidence that the establishment of a permanent NAF presence in Abia State would reinforce peace and stability, improve public confidence and support the state’s economic aspirations.

“Our commitment to supporting the Nigerian Air Force reflects our conviction that a secure environment is indispensable for investment, growth and the well-being of our people. We are proud to partner with the Armed Forces in building a safer, more prosperous Abia State and Nigeria,” the Governor said.

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described the development as historic, noting that it marks the first permanent NAF presence in Abia State.

The facilities handed over include a modern office complex, a block of 21 self-contained accommodation units, a four-bedroom duplex, two residential blocks comprising six three-bedroom flats and twelve two-bedroom flats, as well as the Certificate of Occupancy for 120 hectares of land at Nsulu.

According to the CAS, the investment represents far more than physical infrastructure. It is a strategic contribution to Nigeria’s security architecture that will significantly enhance the NAF’s operational effectiveness in the South-East while creating new opportunities for socio-economic development.

“This is a defining contribution to national defence and stability. It reflects remarkable foresight and patriotism and provides a strong foundation for the Nigerian Air Force to discharge its constitutional responsibilities with greater efficiency.”

The ceremony was attended by former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. O.A. Ihejirika (rtd), and other distinguished dignitaries.