Governor Umo Eno has commended the Nigerian Air Force for strengthening its operational presence in Akwa Ibom State, noting that the development has enhanced security, boosted investor confidence, and supported economic stability.
According to a post shared on the Air Force’s official X platform on Friday, the governor made the remarks during an operational visit by the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, who inspected facilities and activities at the newly operational 309 Composite Group in Eket.
Describing the development as a significant milestone, Eno said the presence of the Air Force formation was already producing tangible security benefits across the state and the wider Niger Delta region.
“The establishment and operationalisation of the 309 Composite Group, Eket, represents a major strategic gain in deterring criminality, protecting critical national infrastructure, and reinforcing stability across Akwa Ibom State and the wider Niger Delta,” he said.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to collaboration with security agencies, stressing that safety remains a key pillar of development.
“Security is the bedrock of economic development. We will continue to work closely with all security agencies to ensure that Akwa Ibom remains one of the safest states in Nigeria,” he added.
The governor further noted that improved security conditions were already encouraging economic activities and strengthening investor confidence in the state.
In his remarks, Aneke praised the state government for its support in facilitating the establishment of the 309 Composite Group, describing it as a strategic asset for national security operations.
“We are fully committed to leveraging this platform to deliver decisive airpower effects in support of national security objectives and safeguard vital economic assets central to Nigeria’s prosperity,” he said.
He explained that the unit would play a vital role in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and rapid response operations across the Niger Delta.
During the visit, the Chief of the Air Staff also met with traditional leaders, including the Paramount Ruler of Eket, Edidem Charles D. Abia, who highlighted the importance of sustained civil-military cooperation.
“Civil-military collaboration remains essential in sustaining the security gains we are recording. It is a partnership that must continue to grow stronger,” he said.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, MN Onyebashi, assured that the unit was steadily enhancing its operational readiness.
“The unit is fully committed to professionalism, discipline, and mission effectiveness in support of national security and economic stability,” he stated.
The 309 Composite Group in Eket is expected to strengthen surveillance capabilities, enable rapid deployment, and protect critical infrastructure across Akwa Ibom State and surrounding areas, reinforcing ongoing security operations in the Niger Delta.
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