The lawmaker representing Ibadan North East/South East Federal Constituency, Rep. Abass Adigun (Agboworin), has commended the efforts and support of the Oyo State Governor, His Excellency ‘Seyi Makinde, DSc, GSSR, FNSE, towards the ongoing progress being made at the Nigerian Air Force Base located in Ajia area of Ibadan.
He gave this commendation on Wednesday during the commissioning of the Nigerian Air Force School of Finance and Accounts, which was officially performed by the Governor, in the Base.
He expressed happiness over the progress being made at the Air Force Base, praising Governor Seyi Makinde for his unwavering support to the NAF and his contributions to the base’s growth.
The School was inaugurated alongside major facilities including blocks of classrooms, library, lecture theatre, 500KVA transformer, armoury room, Assembly Hall, among others.
In the Base, 18 projects have been embarked upon, out of which 12 have been completed and the remaining 6 are at various stages of execution.
Recall the lawmaker facilitated the establishment of the 671 Air Force Base to Ibadan while serving as the Vice Chairman, House Committee on Air Force in the 9th Assembly.
Agboworin, who is the current Chairman, House Committee on Narcotic Drugs, constantly served as the bridge between the NAF and the state government, in a bid to ensure that the project saw the light of the day.
He said: “Today, I am actually happy to see the progress being made at the Air Force Base. We can see that some projects, buildings have been completed and few ones are still ongoing. That is why I feel elated because this is a testament to the hardwork and dedication of everyone involved.
“Most importantly, I want to appreciate my Principal who is no other person than His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for his big support for the Nigerian Air Force. There is no doubt that he has been instrumental in the growth of the base because he does not joke with security situation.
“He has continuously shown great commitment towards the completion of this landmark project, right from the time of the flag off. I am grateful for his leadership and vision.”
The governor, while speaking at the ocassion, commended the Nigerian Air Force for its giant stride, and equally lauded the leadership of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Hassan Bala Abubakar, saying he has transformed the security agency towards achieving its mandate.
Makinde, who was represented by the Director General, Operation Burst, Col. Oladipo Ajibola (Rtd.), described the School as a landmark institution that would play a crucial role in strengthening the financial management capacity of the Air Force personnel and other services.
He stressed that the NAF has shown a great deal of commitment to national security and its personnel have reinforced proffessionalism in their duties.
He said: “This moment is not just about inaugurating the facility but reinforcing professionalism, accountability and excellence in finance administration within our Armed Forces.
“NAF has consistently demonstrated commitment to national security. However, beyond tactical operation and defence, financial prudence and effective resource management remain essential pillars in sustaining the operational efficiency.”
Speaking further, he noted that the school would serve a centre of excellence in providing specialized finance administration, budgeting, auditing and resource management tailored to the unique needs of the Force.
“Beyond immediate impact on the NAF, the facility would contribute to the broader national goal of strengthening financial accountability in public service.
“The graduate of this school would not only serve within the Air Force but would also bring their expertise to inter-agency collaboration, reinforcing financial discipline in all various sectors,” he added.
The governor encouraged the officers to embrace the skills they would acquire not only to enhance their careers but also contribute to the overall effectiveness of the Nigerian Air Force.
In his remark, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Hassan Bala Abubakar, appreciated the governor for the great transformation the state has witnessed since his assumption of office.
While thanking governor Makinde for his continuous support he has extended to the Nigerian Air Force, he pledged that the security agency would keep playing its role in ensuring Oyo State remain safe.
