NAF Expansion In Akwa Ibom Set To Boost Maritime Security
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with the Nigerian Air Force to secure key national infrastructure and maritime assets in the State.
Governor Eno stated this on April 30, 2026, while receiving the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, who paid a courtesy visit to him at Government House, Uyo.
He acknowledged the role of the NAF, in partnership with other security agencies, in tackling insecurity, especially insurgency, and assured of the continuous support of his administration to enable them succeed in the State.
Governor Eno appreciated the Chief of Air Staff for the establishment of a Composite Base of the Force in Eket which, according to him, will enhance the protection of key national maritime assets in the State.
He congratulated him on his appointment, professional accomplishments, and earnest pursuit of knowledge which, he said, has prepared him for the role he has been entrusted with by the President.
Earlier, Air Marshal Aneke appreciated the Governor for his hospitality, visionary leadership, and unwavering support to the NAF, which has enhanced the swift establishment and ongoing operations of the 309 Composite Group in Eket.
The Air Force boss assured the Governor of more national security investment in the State and appreciated Akwa Ibom for accepting those additional responsibilities, affirming his commitment to peace, security, and development.
He said he was proud of Akwa Ibom State and considers himself a son of the State, having associated with and been mentored by different reputable sons of the State, especially Air Vice Marshal Sampson Akpasa (rtd), whom he said was his instructor pilot.
Air Marshal Aneke explained that a standard Air Force unit is generally homogeneous, operating a single type of platform for a specific mission, while a composite group is a tailored, self-sufficient unit composed of different types of aircraft and support units under a single commander to execute missions.
He noted that the establishment of the 309 Composite Group is a strategic step towards strengthening security in the Niger Delta, as well as safeguarding critical economic assets which are not only vital to Akwa Ibom State but to the entire nation.
This, according to him, will enhance surveillance, enable rapid response to security challenges, support maritime and coastal operations, and contribute to disaster response where necessary.
He called for strengthened partnership between the NAF and the Akwa Ibom State Government, local communities, and other security agencies to ensure a stable and secure environment to promote investment, economic growth, and the well-being of the people.
The CAS was accompanied on the visit by the Chief of Air Intelligence, N. N. Ananaba; Chief of Logistics, H. N. Yurkursi; Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, M. N. Onyebashi; Air Secretary, C. O. Obiabaka; Director of Public Relations and Information, E. A. Ejodome; AVM Ukpong; and the Commander, 309 Composite Group, Eket, O. I. Ogbuka.
On hand to receive the team with the Governor were the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; the Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; members of the State Executive Council; political stalwarts; and others.