The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has emphasised the importance of sustained civil–military cooperation in the Niger Delta region in order to safeguard the region.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who made the remark during a visit to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, explaining that Bayelsa occupies a strategic position within Nigeria’s security and economic framework.

He assured the governor of the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to work closely with the state government and other stakeholders to protect lives and critical national assets while sustaining peace in the Niger Delta, noting that continued collaboration between the military and civil authorities is essential to maintaining stability in the oil-rich region

A statement by the Director of Public Relation and Information (DOPRI) Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame quoted the Air Force Chief as saying that his return to Yenagoa as significant, especially as he had previously served as Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command.

Earlier, Governor Diri commended the Nigerian Air Force for its sustained role in maintaining stability and protecting vital oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta. He also lauded the Service for establishing a new training institution in the state, noting that the initiative would deepen cooperation between the Air Force and the Bayelsa State Government while creating opportunities for capacity development.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Nigerian Air Force in promoting security and development in the state.

During the visit, the Chief of the Air Staff also stopped at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force, Operation DELTA SAFE, where he was received by the Commander, Rear Admiral OBF Oladipo. The commander commended the Nigerian Air Force for its unwavering operational support to the joint task force, particularly the contribution of the NAF Air Component to ongoing operations across the theatre.

He noted that the intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and air mobility capabilities provided by the Air Force had significantly enhanced the effectiveness of joint operations aimed at protecting critical national assets and combating economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.

In a further show of solidarity, the Air Chief paid a condolence visit to the widow of the late Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Erujakpo. During the visit, Air Marshal Aneke conveyed the condolences of the Nigerian Air Force to the bereaved family and the people of Bayelsa State, describing the late deputy governor as a dedicated public servant whose contributions to governance and development would be remembered.

A major highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Administrative Management in Yenagoa. The institute is expected to provide specialised training in administration, management and public relations, thereby strengthening professional capacity within the Service while also supporting broader civil–military cooperation initiatives.