Umuahia, August 1, 2026 — Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, on Friday formally handed over the newly completed Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Administrative Complex in Umuahia to the Federal Government through the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, and the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.).

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Governor Otti described the protection of lives and property as a fundamental right of every resident and visitor in Abia State. He said the project reflects the benefits of strong cooperation between the Federal Government and state governments in advancing a common security agenda.

According to the Governor, the facility demonstrates his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the security of the state and ensuring that residents and visitors are protected from all forms of security threats.

“The facility demonstrates my administration’s resolve to leave no stone unturned in protecting Abians and visitors alike from all forms of security threats.

“For us, the right to security for our people, whether they are residents or visitors, is non-negotiable,” Otti said.

The Governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force for supporting the establishment of a permanent Air Force presence in Abia State. He assured them that his administration would continue to provide the necessary support to enable the force to effectively carry out its responsibilities.

In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, commended Governor Otti for what he described as an unprecedented investment in national security.

He said the establishment of a permanent Nigerian Air Force presence in Abia represents a major milestone that will strengthen security, improve operational capacity, and contribute to socio-economic development across the South-East.

“This gesture transcends politics. It goes far beyond bricks and mortar. It is a defining contribution to national defence and stability and a trailblazing legacy that will bear your name in the annals of Nigeria’s security architecture,” he said.

Also speaking, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), praised Governor Otti for his consistent commitment to enhancing security through strategic investments, describing him as a leader who demonstrates his commitment through action.

He congratulated the government and people of Abia State on the successful completion of the project, stressing that safeguarding the nation is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration among governments, security agencies, communities, and citizens.

The Defence Minister also urged officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force who will be deployed to the state to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and contribute positively to Abia’s growth and development.

“I want to charge the Nigerian Air Force that your personnel coming here should make Abia State a better place. We don’t want to hear issues arising because of your presence. Already, good things are happening; make it better,” he said.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (retd.), described security as the foundation of sustainable development.

He explained that the construction and handover of the Nigerian Air Force Administrative Complex in Umuahia was driven by Governor Otti’s strategic vision to strengthen Abia State’s security architecture and enhance the safety of residents and visitors.