The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has established a Forward Operational Base (FOB) in Akwa Ibom to bolster its operational reach in the South-South region, with the Akwa Ibom State Government donating land to support the initiative. Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar announced the development during a courtesy visit to Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno in Uyo on July 31, 2025, as confirmed by a statement from NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame. The FOB, strategically located near the Eket Airstrip, aims to enhance air power projection and maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, protecting critical assets like the Floating Liquefied Natural Gas Plant and Ibom Deep Sea Port. Abubakar praised the land donation as a “pivotal” boost to national security infrastructure, fostering investment and tourism in Akwa Ibom.
Governor Eno, presenting the land documents, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security as the foundation for development, noting Akwa Ibom’s rising role in Nigeria’s security architecture. He expressed gratitude for the NAF’s integration into the state’s security framework, particularly given its littoral status, according to Voice of Nigeria. The collaboration also includes the transfer of the Eket Airstrip to the NAF, enhancing operational capabilities.
