Makinde Commends NAF’s Security Operations, Reaffirms Strategic Partnership with Air Force Leadership
The Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its sustained operational contributions to security and development in the state, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to deepening strategic collaboration with the service.
Governor Makinde gave the commendation on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, during a courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, the Governor expressed appreciation on behalf of the Government and people of Oyo State for the critical role the NAF continues to play in strengthening security architecture and supporting socio-economic development within the state.
He also congratulated Air Marshal Aneke on his appointment as the 23rd Chief of the Air Staff, praising his leadership and ongoing efforts to enhance air operations across the country.
Makinde specifically acknowledged the Nigerian Air Force’s airlift support during Oyo State’s 50th Anniversary celebration, describing the gesture as a strong demonstration of effective civil-military cooperation and inter-agency synergy.
Read Also:
Highlighting the depth of collaboration between Oyo State and the Air Force, the Governor noted that the Commander of the NAF Detachment in Ibadan remains an active member of the State Security Council.
According to him, this arrangement has significantly strengthened intelligence-sharing and coordinated security responses to emerging threats.
He further observed that relations between NAF personnel and the civilian population in Oyo State have remained cordial and mutually beneficial, assuring the Air Force leadership of his administration’s continued accessibility and support in advancing shared security objectives.
In his response, Air Marshal Aneke welcomed Governor Makinde and congratulated the Government and people of Oyo State on their Golden Jubilee celebration.
He commended the ongoing infrastructure transformation in Ibadan, noting that such developments reinforce the South-West security architecture and provide a modern platform for the effective projection of air power.
The Chief of the Air Staff expressed gratitude for the Oyo State Government’s consistent support to the Nigerian Air Force, particularly the allocation of land at Ibadan Airport for a Forward Operating Base, the provision of land for a new NAF Base at Ajia, and financial assistance toward the construction of new barracks.
Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed that the partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and the Oyo State Government remains vital to safeguarding lives and property, while promoting sustainable development across the South-West region.
The visit underscored the importance of sustained civil-military cooperation in strengthening national security and ensuring regional stability.