Governor Eno Commends Nigerian Air Force’s Expanded Security Footprint in Niger Delta
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Bassey Eno, has lauded the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for strengthening its operational presence in the state, describing the move as a significant catalyst for peace, investor confidence, and economic growth in the Niger Delta.
Governor Eno made the remarks on April 30, 2026, during an operational visit by the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking during a high-level engagement, the governor praised the Air Force’s proactive approach to security, highlighting the establishment and operationalisation of the 309 Composite Group in Eket as a strategic intervention. According to him, the unit will play a crucial role in deterring criminal activities, safeguarding critical national infrastructure, and reinforcing stability across the state and the broader Niger Delta region.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustained collaboration with the NAF, emphasizing that security remains fundamental to economic development. The governor noted that the new operational base would significantly enhance peace and support economic activities in the region.
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The visit featured strategic engagements with key stakeholders as well as an inspection of facilities at the 309 Composite Group in Eket. The activities underscored the NAF’s renewed operational posture aimed at neutralising security threats, protecting vital economic assets, and fostering long-term regional stability.
In his remarks, Air Marshal Aneke commended the Akwa Ibom State Government for its support in facilitating the establishment of the unit. He described the 309 Composite Group as a critical forward operating base designed to strengthen intelligence gathering, surveillance, and rapid response capabilities.
“The establishment of the 309 Composite Group is a strategic step towards strengthening security and safeguarding vital economic assets central to Nigeria’s prosperity,” he said, reaffirming the Air Force’s commitment to delivering effective airpower in support of national security objectives.
During his visit to Eket, the Air Chief also met with the Paramount Ruler, Edidem Charles D. Abia, and other community stakeholders, where he called for deeper civil-military cooperation. He stressed that sustainable security outcomes depend on trust, intelligence-sharing, and active community partnership.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, MN Onyebashi, expressed confidence in the operational readiness of the unit, noting that personnel are well-prepared to execute assigned missions in line with the Chief of the Air Staff’s directive on professionalism, discipline, and operational effectiveness.
The development marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to enhance security architecture and support economic resilience in the Niger Delta region.
