Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called for the establishment of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in the state to enhance its security architecture.
He also advocated for the creation of a NAF school to instil strong moral values in young Nigerians.
Abiodun made these requests during a meeting with a delegation from the Chief of Air Staff, led by Air Vice Marshal Enebong Effiom, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta yesterday.
The meeting followed his earlier discussion on Monday with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, where he reaffirmed Ogun State’s commitment to strengthening its collaboration with the NAF for improved security and aviation development.
Highlighting the role of security in economic growth, Abiodun stressed that having an Air Force presence in Ogun—Nigeria’s industrial hub—would provide additional protection.
READ ALSO: Ogun to establish modern ranching facilities for meat processing
“I met with the Chief of Air Staff in Abuja, and we discussed several issues, particularly regarding our airport. I emphasised that beyond having Air Force personnel stationed at the airport, we need a full-fledged Air Force base in Ogun State,” he said.
The governor described Air Marshal Abubakar as a forward-thinking and responsive leader, expressing confidence in his willingness to support the initiative.
He noted that Ogun already hosts key security institutions, including the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Navy School, making the presence of the Air Force a strategic addition.
Beyond the Air Force base, Abiodun also proposed the establishment of an Air Force school, pledging state support to ensure its success.
“We are passionate about having an Air Force school in Ogun. We will provide all necessary support to make this a reality, offering young citizens an opportunity to understand and consider a career in the Nigerian Air Force,” he stated.
To facilitate the immediate setup of the Air Force base, the governor offered a model school building that is currently unused, easing the logistical burden on the military.
“In the short term, I can confirm that, with the Chief of Air Staff’s support, we will establish an Air Force presence at the airport almost immediately. The state will provide offices and accommodation for personnel to ensure smooth operations,” he added.
Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to work closely with the Nigerian Air Force, emphasizing that the initiative would strengthen security and boost Ogun’s aviation sector.
“All the support, I have assured the Chief of Air Staff, will go beyond complementing our law enforcement architecture; this will be one of our legacies,” Abiodun added.
READ ALSO: Shettima, Dangote, Sanwo-Olu present as FirstBank flags off 40-storey head office
The governor noted that his administration has provided land and other support to the Nigerian Navy to establish a base at Ogun Waterside, adding that the groundbreaking for the Naval base is expected to take place in a few weeks’ time.
While outlining some projects carried out by his administration to encourage more investors into the state, Governor Abiodun said that roads have been constructed to link up rail lines, while the airport is part of the state’s master plan on transportation.
