The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commended the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its commitment to community development and social impact projects, following the commissioning of a Special Intervention/Quick Impact Project (QIP) at Ohe Community in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State.
The project, inaugurated on 16 October 2025 by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, provides an industrial borehole with a 35,000-litre overhead water tank to enhance access to clean water for residents.
Governor Okpebholo, who served as Special Guest of Honour, represented by Alhaji Gani Audu, Chief of Staff to the Governor of Edo state, lauded the NAF for extending its developmental initiatives beyond its operational responsibilities, describing the project as a true reflection of the Service’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians. He noted that the initiative aligns with his administration’s grassroots development agenda, aimed at promoting sustainable growth and improving the quality of life across Edo State. The Governor also praised Air Marshal Abubakar for his leadership vision in strengthening civil-military relations through impactful humanitarian programmes.
Speaking at the event, the CAS, represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, reaffirmed the NAF’s resolve to deepen its connection with communities through development-oriented projects. He explained that the initiative forms part of the Chief of the Air Staff’s Special Intervention and QIPs, designed to foster trust, cooperation, and mutual understanding between the military and the civilian populace.
According to Air Marshal Abubakar, “civil-military relations remain critical to national stability, as they promote collaboration between the armed forces and local communities while discouraging activities that threaten peace and unity.” He further noted that the “upgrade of the Directorate of Civil-Military Relations to a full Branch in May 2024 demonstrates the NAF’s evolving role in humanitarian affairs, gender advocacy, and grievance redress for both personnel and civilians.”
The CAS commended Air Vice Marshal Pius Oguega Oahimire, an indigene of Ohe Community, for identifying a project that directly addresses the people’s needs. He urged residents to take ownership of the facility and maintain it for long-term use, while assuring them of the NAF’s continued partnership in promoting peace and security across the state.
In his remarks, AVM Oahimire, the Project Coordinator and Honouree, expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff for the honour of executing a project in his community under the NAF’s QIP. He stated that access to clean water is essential to life and development, adding that the gesture reflects the NAF’s understanding that national security and community welfare are inseparable. He encouraged the people of Ohe to protect and sustain the project as a legacy for future generations.
The event attracted community leaders, traditional rulers, NAF senior officers, and residents, who all expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force for its continued efforts in improving lives through people-centred initiatives.
*Ehimen Ejodame*
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information,
Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force.
17 October 2025
