Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has assured Enugu State Government of continuous partnership to ensure sustainable peace, security and development in the state and across Nigeria, commending Governor Mbah’s massive development in the state.
He gave the assurance , Thursday, 5 February, when he led a delegation of the Nigerian Air Force, alongside senior officers of the Nigerian Army, on a courtesy visit to Governor Peter Mbah at the Government House, Enugu.
Gov Mbah in audience with the chief of Air Staff,Air Marshal Sunday Aneke
Air Marshal Anieke said effective partnership between security agencies and sub-national governments remained critical to achieving lasting peace and stability, stressing that Enugu State would continue to enjoy the full support of the Nigerian Air Force.
Briefing the governor on the purpose of their visit, the Chief of Air Staff disclosed plans to deepen cooperation beyond security operations, extending to housing, agriculture, infrastructure and investment.
According to him, private sector partners had already begun indicating interest in key development projects within the state.
He expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded him, describing the visit as long overdue, and reaffirmed his personal commitment to supporting Enugu’s peace and development agenda.
Gov Mbah
Responding , Governor Mbah welcomed the Chief of Air Staff to his home state. He described the visit as a proud and emotional moment for the people of Enugu.
The Governor noted that while it might seem unusual to welcome a “son of the soil” to his own state, Air Marshal Aneke’s distinguished service to the nation made the honour both appropriate and necessary.
The governor commended the Air Chief for his swift interventions and visible progress recorded in the fight against insurgency and banditry in different parts of the country. He described Air Marshal Aneke as passionate, responsive and deeply committed to national service.
He said his colleagues, other State officials also commended his hands-on leadership style. Governor Mbah recalled instances where he personally followed up security situations and ensured rapid responses whenever tension arose in the state.
“We hear the accolades being poured on you from across the country, and we are extremely proud,”he said, , describing the Air Chief as “a new man in action” and a worthy ambassador of Nigeria.
The Enugu State Government further commended the strong synergy between the state and security agencies, including the Army and Navy, noting that joint operations had successfully dislodged criminal elements from forest areas that could have become major bandit camps.
He said the cleared locations were now being converted into large-scale farmers’ estates to boost food security and economic activities.
While acknowledging that security challenges still exist, the state government assured the Chief of Air Staff of its continued cooperation, stressing that it would not hesitate to seek further support whenever the need arises.
Governor Mbah promised that the state government will provide land for resettlement housing for security personnel, agricultural projects and other initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth and preventing idle lands and forests from being exploited by criminal elements.
He announced plans to organise a civic reception to honour Air Marshal Aneke for his service and contributions to national peace and stability in the country.
