The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, issued a stern caution to institutions and communities neighbouring Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Bases across the nation, urging them to refrain from illegal encroachment on NAF lands due to its severe implications on national security.
During a recent visit to the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father (Dr) Hyacinth Alia at Government House, Makurdi, CAS Abubakar emphasized the critical need to address encroachment issues surrounding the NAF Base in Makurdi.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwe, Director of Public Relations and Information Nigerian Air Force, conveyed the CAS’s message, highlighting the persistent encroachment along the eastern boundary of the Base despite containment measures taken along the western boundary.
CAS Abubakar underscored the detrimental impact of potential land loss, amounting to 1,537.8 hectares out of the originally allocated 4,486 hectares in 1977.
Such loss, he stressed, would not only impede infrastructural development crucial for operational readiness and capability enhancement but also pose immediate security risks.
However, he commended Governor Alia for initiating a tripartite committee involving representatives from the Benue State Government, NAF, and affected communities to seek a lasting solution.
In reaffirming NAF’s commitment to contribute to ongoing efforts to combat communal clashes, banditry, and other criminal activities in Benue State, CAS Abubakar applauded Governor Alia’s support to NAF operations and dedication to resolving security challenges in the state.
The allocation of 4,486 hectares of land for the Tactical Air Command Base in Makurdi in 1977, as per the Signature Plan signed by then-Governor Colonel Abdullahi Shellenge, was strategically aimed at meeting national security objectives.
However, prolonged encroachment has led to disputes between NAF and neighboring communities, with previous resolution attempts yielding limited success. Despite fencing off encroached portions along the western boundary, the encroachment issue persists along the eastern boundary, necessitating urgent attention and resolution.
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, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, issued a stern caution to institutions and communities neighbouring Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Bases across the nation, urging them to refrain from illegal encroachment on NAF lands due to its severe implications on national security.){kind=link}