Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, on Wednesday undertook a strategic operational visit to Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where he engaged personnel of Headquarters Mobility Command and other Nigerian Air Force (NAF) units, commissioned key infrastructure projects, and inaugurated a new training institution.
According to a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, the visit forms part of the CAS’s ongoing operational tour of NAF formations nationwide, aimed at assessing readiness, enhancing personnel welfare, and reinforcing partnerships critical to national security.
During a courtesy call on Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, Air Marshal Aneke emphasized the importance of sustained civil–military cooperation in safeguarding the Niger Delta. “Bayelsa State occupies a strategic place within Nigeria’s security and economic architecture. The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to working closely with the Bayelsa State Government and other stakeholders to ensure the protection of lives, critical national assets and sustained peace across the Niger Delta,” he stated.
Governor Diri commended the NAF for its role in maintaining stability and protecting oil and gas infrastructure in the region. He welcomed the establishment of a training institution in Yenagoa, noting that it would deepen collaboration between the state and the Service while creating opportunities for capacity development.
At the Headquarters of Joint Task Force, Operation DELTA SAFE, Commander Rear Admiral O.B.F. Oladipo praised the NAF for its operational support, particularly its intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and air mobility capabilities.
By Emmanuel Obisue, Abuja
