Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called for the establishment of a Nigerian Air Force base in the state to strengthen its security infrastructure.

Abiodun also advocated the creation of a Nigerian Air Force school in Ogun, emphasising the need to raise morally sound children who could contribute to national development.

The governor made these demands on Tuesday during a meeting with a delegation from the Chief of Air Staff, led by Air Vice Marshal Enebong Effiom, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The visit followed Abiodun’s earlier discussion on Monday with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, during which the governor reaffirmed Ogun State’s commitment to collaborating with the Nigerian Air Force to enhance security and aviation development.

Acknowledging the critical role of security in socio-economic growth, Governor Abiodun noted that having a full complement of the Nigerian Armed Forces in Ogun would enhance the state’s status as Nigeria’s industrial hub.

“I had the opportunity to meet with the Chief of Air Staff yesterday (Monday) at his office in Abuja, and we exchanged ideas on a lot of issues, particularly regarding the airport,” Abiodun said.

“I shared with the Chief of Air Staff that having an airport provides us the opportunity to have the men and women of the Nigerian Air Force complement our security architecture. My desire is not just to have the Air Force at the airport but to establish an Air Force base here in Ogun State.”

Describing Air Marshal Abubakar as “responsive, proactive, and forward-looking,” Abiodun commended his willingness to collaborate in advancing the state’s security initiatives.

“We believe that considering the fact that we have the Nigerian Army in Abeokuta, the Police, and the Nigerian Navy School here, we also need the Nigerian Air Force,” he stated.

Beyond establishing a base, Abiodun revealed plans to partner with the Nigerian Air Force to set up a school in Ogun, fostering early exposure to military careers among young citizens.

“I also spoke to the Chief of Air Staff yesterday about going beyond a base and looking at how we can partner with you to have an Air Force school in Ogun State, and that is something we are very passionate about.”

The governor assured the delegation of his administration’s full support for the initiative, adding:

“Whatever we can do to support that initiative, you can take it for granted, so we can encourage our citizens to join the Nigerian Air Force. If we nurture young ones in the right learning environment, they will better understand the career opportunities available to them.”

Abiodun expressed appreciation to the Chief of Air Staff for sending a high-ranking delegation and reiterated Ogun State’s readiness to facilitate the Air Force’s establishment in the state.

“I had offered one of our institutions, our model school that has not been put into use, to reduce the burden that comes with setting up a base for the Air Force,” he disclosed.

He further announced plans to ensure the immediate deployment of Air Force personnel at the state’s airport.

“With the support of the Chief of Air Staff, we will have an Air Force presence at the airport almost immediately. We will build a suitable office for the Air Force at the airport and provide accommodation for personnel who will be delivering the required services.”

The governor emphasised that these efforts would not only enhance security but also serve as a lasting legacy for Ogun State.

Abiodun also highlighted the state’s ongoing collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, noting that land and other support have been provided for a Naval base in Ogun Waterside. He disclosed that the groundbreaking ceremony for the base would take place in a few weeks.

On infrastructure development, he reassured investors that his administration was committed to creating seamless transportation networks by linking roads to rail lines, with the state’s airport playing a crucial role in its master plan.