The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has issued a stern warning to institutions and communities surrounding Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Bases nationwide, urging them to refrain from illegal encroachment on NAF lands due to its potential consequences on national security.
During a recent visit to the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father (Dr) Hyacinth Alia at Government House, Makurdi, the CAS addressed the issue of encroachment on NAF land by neighbouring communities around the Base in Makurdi.
Air Marshal Abubakar revealed that while the NAF has managed to contain encroachment along the western boundary of the Base by fencing off encroached portions, the problem persists along the eastern boundary.
The potential loss of 1,537.8 hectares out of the 4,486 hectares of NAF land, translating to 34 percent of the land originally allocated in 1977, would have adverse effects on the strategic intent of siting the NAF Command in Makurdi.
“Ceding such a significant portion of NAF land would limit the required space for medium and long term infrastructural development necessary for future operational readiness and capability development,” he stated.
The CAS emphasized that apart from immediate security and safety concerns, such boundary reduction would distort strategic planning.
However, Air Marshal Abubakar commended the Governor for agreeing to establish a tripartite committee involving representatives from the Benue State Government, the NAF, and affected communities. The committee’s task is to find a resolution that satisfies all parties involved.
The NAF Chief reiterated the commitment of the NAF to contribute to efforts to end communal clashes, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality in Benue State. He also praised Governor Alia for his support to the NAF in Benue State and his efforts to address insecurity.
The land currently serving as the home Base of Tactical Air Command in Makurdi was allocated to the NAF in 1977 to meet operational and strategic national security objectives. However, it has suffered significant encroachment over the years, leading to protracted land disputes between the NAF and neighbouring communities.
Efforts to resolve these disputes have been unsuccessful in the past. Although the NAF has managed to contain encroachment along the western boundary of the Base, the problem persists along the eastern boundary.
