Oyo State Governor Commends NAF Operations, Reaffirms Strategic Partnership During Courtesy Visit To CAS

Oyo State Governor Commends NAF Operations, Reaffirms Strategic Partnership During Courtesy Visit To CAS

The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Abuja. The Governor expressed appreciation on behalf of the Government and people of Oyo State for the vital role the Nigerian Air Force continues to play in strengthening security and supporting development within the State. He also congratulated Air Marshal Aneke on his appointment as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff, commending his leadership in enhancing air operations nationwide. Governor Makinde further appreciated the airlift support provided by the NAF during the Oyo State 50th Anniversary celebration, describing it as a strong demonstration of effective civil-military cooperation.

Highlighting the existing security collaboration, the Governor noted that the Commander of the NAF Detachment in Ibadan remains an active member of the State Security Council, contributing meaningfully to intelligence-sharing and coordinated security responses. He affirmed that the relationship between NAF personnel and the civilian population in Oyo State has remained cordial and mutually beneficial, assuring the CAS of the State Government’s continued accessibility and support in advancing shared security objectives.

In his response, Air Marshal Aneke welcomed the Governor and congratulated the Government and people of Oyo State on their Golden Jubilee celebration. He praised the ongoing infrastructure transformation in Ibadan, noting that it strengthens the South-West security architecture and provides a modern platform for the projection of air power. The CAS expressed appreciation for the State Government’s consistent support, particularly the allocation of land at Ibadan Airport for a Forward Operating Base, the provision of land for the new NAF Base at Ajia, and financial assistance toward the construction of new barracks. He reaffirmed that the partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and Oyo State Government remains vital to safeguarding lives, property, and sustainable development in the region.