Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has strongly reaffirmed his administration’s steadfast dedication to a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), a collaboration poised to significantly bolster security across the state, with a particular focus on its vital waterways.
Governor Eno’s reassuring remarks were delivered on Friday in Uyo, during a cordial reception for a high-level delegation led by Air Vice Marshal Sunday Aneke, the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Mobility Command of the Nigerian Air Force, Yenagoa.
The governor took the opportunity to commend the NAF heartily for its crucial role in fostering strategic alliances with other security agencies. This unified approach has proven highly effective in mitigating insecurity, particularly within the geographical purview of the mobility command’s jurisdiction, instilling greater confidence in the region’s safety.
He noted that all the security agencies in the state, including units of the Nigerian Air Force, had been working collaboratively, adding that the synergy had enhanced the security of lives and properties in the state.
“We welcome you warmly, first of all to Akwa Ibom, and as a visitor, on your tour of duty to the state, that is within your jurisdiction.
“We would like to celebrate the work that you have done already and particularly in collaboration with the Air Force.
“As a state, we take security very seriously and work with our security team.
‘’The commander knows that we work as a team, to ensure that we keep our people safe, because it is the primary responsibility of any responsible government,” he said.
Eno commended the cooperation and support of the mobility command to the state, and lauded the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, for “his excellent, diligent and professional service” to the country.
He, however, appealed for the continued support of the force in clearing the creeks and isolated islands of sea pirates and other criminals.
Earlier in his remarks, Aneke expressed gratitude to the governor for the support, contribution and collaboration the command had enjoyed from the state government.
According to him, the state and the force have remained strategic partners for years.
He added that the partnership had yielded immeasurable peace and stability, as well as economic growth for the people.
Aneke then expressed the commitment of NAF to continue working closely with the state government to ensure the safety of lives and property.
