Owerri: The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has inaugurated a 30-room transit accommodation for airmen of the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) at the 211 Quick Response Group (QRG), NAF Base in Owerri, the capital of Imo.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the newly inaugurated facility marks a significant milestone in the development of the base and underscores a commitment to enhancing the operational efficiency of personnel. Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar emphasized that the project is vital in maintaining a highly motivated force to tackle the security challenges prevalent in the state and the broader South East region.
Abubakar highlighted the importance of this achievement in addressing the security situation in Owerri and its neighboring areas. He noted the ongoing threats posed by the activities of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), which continue to undermine regional peace and security. He reiterated the Nigeria Air Force's dedication to its constitutional mandate of defending the country's territorial integrity and safeguarding the lives and properties of its citizens.
The Air Chief assured that NAF will continue working closely with other security agencies to restore normalcy and stability in affected communities. He called on the occupants of the new facility to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, and loyalty, reminding them that the infrastructure is a gesture of appreciation for their sacrifices and a reminder of their responsibility in crime-fighting.
Abubakar also noted the remarkable transformation of NAF under President Bola Tinubu's leadership, evident in the significant upgrade of aircraft inventory and enhanced operational readiness. He highlighted the recent bolstering of NAF's fleet with 15 new aircraft and the plan to acquire 49 additional aircraft by 2026.
Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command NAF, AVM Usman Abdullahi, remarked that the facility will greatly enhance the performance, morale, and wellbeing of personnel. He pointed out that it will also reduce operational costs for those commuting to the city center. Abdullahi assured that the facility will be used effectively to boost efforts in combating crime in the South East.
Commander of the 211 Quick Response Group, Air Commodore David Bello, acknowledged that the presence of Air Marshal Abubakar at the inauguration underscores his commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the unit. Bello added that the new accommodation will further enhance their infrastructure and operational capabilities, supporting their recent successes in disrupting IPOB's activities.