By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
The Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command Makurdi, Air Vice Marshall Francis Edosa has said that Benue’s state is very strategic to the operations of the Nigeria Air Force.
AVM Edosa who led other high-ranking officers on a courtesy call to the state governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia at Government House Makurdi, also congratulated the governor on his election and thanked him for the warm reception accorded them despite the short notice.
Describing Benue State as very strategic to the Nigerian Air Force as it is home to its warfighting commands, AVM Edosa added, “Beyond its immediate area of responsibility which is Benue State, the Tactical Air Command directly oversees air operations in the North/East, South/South, and South East in addition to making critical contributions to operation theaters across the country”.
“The Nigeria Air Force values and appreciates its long-standing external relationship with the people and government of Benue state. It is for this purpose that I am here to express our most sincere appreciation and hopes of keeping this relationship going and to seek ways through which we can strengthen this all-important relationship.
AVM Edosa pointed out that, “The complex nature of contemporary security challenges requires a multi-sectoral and specialized effort from society. Therefore, beyond the traditional military solutions, it is my firm belief that committed participation from different stakeholders is very important to addressing societal challenges”.
“While security is considered a pre-condition for development, positive development in itself will help in containing the root causes of insecurity”, AVM Edosa maintained.
Earlier, Gov. Hyacinth Alia had stated his resolve to explore all avenues to bring to an end, the long-standing land dispute between the Nigeria Air Force Base and the Ugondo Community of Makurdi Local Government Area.
Stressing the need to find a lasting solution to the issue, the governor disclosed, “Since assumption of office, I have met with members of the community as well as the joint committee that was set up by my predecessor to look into the matter to ascertain how far they have gone with their findings as to enable me to take an informed decision”.
“I would want more of federal establishments in the state and will not condone acts that will scare federal establishments and individual investors away”, he declared.
Gov. Alia, appreciated AVM Edosa and members of his delegation over their solidarity gesture, adding that, Benue is a hospitable place.
