Defence Minister Hails Otti Over New NAF Administrative Complex, Reaffirms Commitment to South-East Security

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has commended Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for what he described as visionary leadership and strategic investment in national security following the commissioning of a new Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Administrative Complex in Umuahia.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony alongside Governor Otti and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Defence Minister said the project demonstrates how state governments can play a significant role in strengthening Nigeria's security architecture through collaboration with the Federal Government and the Armed Forces.

General Musa reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to improving security across the South-East, stressing that safeguarding the nation requires collective responsibility.

"National security is a shared responsibility. 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," he said.

The minister noted that the administrative complex would enhance the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Air Force by improving coordination, personnel management and strategic planning. He added that modern military operations depend not only on combat capabilities but also on efficient administrative infrastructure that supports operational readiness.

He also praised officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force for their continued commitment to protecting Nigeria's airspace and supporting joint military operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and crude oil theft.

Addressing Air Force personnel posted to Abia State, General Musa urged them to maintain professionalism and foster cordial relations with host communities.

"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 said.

The Defence Minister linked the commissioning of the facility to broader security initiatives in the South-East, noting that it followed the 60th anniversary commemoration of the late Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi and the recently concluded maiden South-East Security Summit.

He assured residents that resolutions reached during the summit would be translated into concrete actions aimed at ensuring lasting peace and boosting economic development in the region.

"What we are promising is that the South-East Security Summit will not be just a talk show. Whatever was agreed upon will be fully implemented to guarantee long-term peace and economic prosperity," he stated.

In his remarks, Governor Otti, speaking on the theme, "Security is a Right," said the construction of the NAF Administrative Complex reflects his administration's determination to safeguard lives and property in the state.

He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for facilitating the establishment of a Nigerian Air Force presence in Abia State, describing it as a major step towards strengthening security in the region.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, also thanked the Abia State Government for the facility and pledged that the Nigerian Air Force would make judicious use of the complex and other assets provided.

He expressed confidence that the increased military presence would enhance security coverage across the South-East and contribute to greater peace and stability in the region.