Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, on Friday formally handed over the newly constructed 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.), during a ceremony held in the state capital.

Speaking at the event, Governor Otti said the protection of lives and property remains a fundamental responsibility of his administration, describing the project as a clear demonstration of what can be achieved through effective collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments in advancing national security.

He noted that the facility reflects his administration’s determination to provide a safer environment for both residents and visitors to Abia State.

“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,” the governor said.

Governor Otti also 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 of the state government's continued cooperation and support to ensure the success of the force's operations.

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 marks a historic 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 strengthening security through strategic investments, describing him as a leader whose actions reflect his dedication to public safety.

He congratulated the government and people of Abia State on the initiative, stressing that national security is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of governments, security agencies, communities, and citizens.

General Musa also charged officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force posted to the state to uphold professionalism and contribute meaningfully to Abia’s continued 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 were driven by Governor Otti’s strategic vision to strengthen Abia State’s security architecture and enhance the capacity of security agencies operating within the state.