Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has expressed a strong desire for the Nigerian Air Force to enhance its operations in the state. During a meeting at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan on Monday, the governor assured that his administration would continue to provide essential support to facilitate the swift completion of the Air Force Base in Ajia and collaborate on additional operational areas.
Governor Makinde praised the Nigerian Air Force for its significant contributions to state security, noting their continued support to his administration. “The Air Force has been a pillar of support since my tenure began, assisting in keeping Oyo State safe and secure,” he stated. He expressed gratitude to the Air Force personnel for their dedication to public safety.
In conversation with Air Vice Marshal Kolade Ademuwagun, the Air Officer Commanding of the Logistics Command, Nigerian Air Force, the governor conveyed his appreciation for the Force’s efforts and highlighted their roles in enhancing the state’s security framework. He also acknowledged the Air Force’s involvement in the upgrade of Ibadan Airport to an international status.
Governor Makinde emphasized the importance of a functional Air Force Base in Ajia, assuring that the state government had addressed compensation for any individuals displaced by the project. He recognized inflation’s impact on budget considerations and expressed the state’s readiness to increase financial support for the project’s timely completion.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the Air Force amid international standards for aviation, the governor encouraged officers to persevere, stating, “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.”
Air Vice Marshal Ademuwagun reciprocated the governor’s sentiments, commending the strong relationship between the Oyo State Government and the Nigerian Air Force. He highlighted the state’s rich history and praised Makinde’s strategic vision in areas such as economy, education, and agriculture.
The meeting was attended by several key officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akinola Ojo, among others. Ademuwagun was accompanied by Air Commodore George Akinyimika, the Air Officer Commanding 671 NAF Detachment in Ibadan, and other senior officials from the Nigerian Air Force.
