Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has said his administration would love to see the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) expand its operations and footprints in the state.
He assured that his government would continue to provide all the necessary support for the Air Force to ensure rapid completion of the Air Force Base in Ajia, Ibadan as well as collaborate with the security agency on other areas of operations.
Makinde said these when he received the Air Officer Commanding, Logistics Command, Nigerian Air Force, Ikeja, Lagos, Air Vice Marshal Kolade Ademuwagun, in his office, on Monday.
The governor commended the Nigerian Air Force for being a pillar of support to his administration and for complementing its efforts in keeping the state safe.
Makinde appreciated the NAF for its professional support and immense contributions through its men. He said were part of the state’s security architecture and were also serving as members of the committee for the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport to an international airport.
He said: “I need to acknowledge the fact that since I came in here, the NAF has been a pillar of support and they have kept us safe and secure in Oyo State. Your officers and men have been working day and night to keep us safe.
“We want to, on behalf of the people of the state and the government, say thank you to the Air Force. Please, convey my sincere appreciation to the Chief of Air Staff for what you are doing in Oyo State.
“We are looking forward to a functional Air Force Base in Ajia. When we started the interaction regarding the project, we said we were going to pay compensation to the people that have to be displaced and that has been done.
“Also, we promised an amount, but we know that inflation has caught up with that amount and we are ready to contribute more so that the project can see the light of the day and can be done rapidly.
“I know this is also a tough period for our security agencies, especially the Air Force, because there is no local standard for aviation, the standard is international. And most of the things you do, like training, simulation, maintaining your equipment and aircraft, are based on forex.
“So, I know for you to get through this period, you must have been doing a lot of maneuvering and ingenuity. I can only encourage you to say that we feel your pain. Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.”
Speaking earlier, Air Vice Marshal Ademuwagun thanked Governor Makinde for the warm reception and the cordial relationship that has always existed between the Oyo State Government and the Nigeria Air Force.
He described the state as a place of significant history rejuvenated for the benefit of mankind through the initiative of the governor.
Ademuwagun added that the strategic vision of Governor Makinde on the economy, education, agriculture and other sectors have brought about significant achievements.
Air Vice Marshal Ademuwagun equally lauded Governor Makinde for his tremendous support to the Air Force over the years.
He particularly thanked the governor for providing NAF with an expanse of land to serve as the permanent site for the construction of the 671 Nigeria Air Force Base located in Ajia, Ibadan.
The Air Force chief also stressed that the governor’s commitment, leadership and style of administration have been consistent.
In attendance at the meeting were the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni; Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akinola Ojo and Senior Executive Assistant, General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal.
Others included Special Adviser on Security to the governor, CP Fatai Owoseni (rtd); Director-General of Operation Burst, Col. James Ajibola (rtd) and the Special Adviser, Immigration and Homeland Services, AGC Segun Adegoke (rtd).
Air Vice Marshal Ademuwagun was accompanied by the Air Officer Commanding 671 NAF Detachment, Ibadan, Air Commodore George Akinyimika and other top echelon of the Nigeria Air Force.
