Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to partner with the Nigerian Air Force to enhance security in the state, especially along the waterways.

Mr Eno made the remark while receiving a delegation, led by the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Mobility Command, Nigerian Air Force, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, AVM Sunday Aneke, who called on him in Uyo on Friday.

The governor commended the NAF for its strategic collaboration with other security agencies in curbing insecurity, especially in states within the mobility command’s jurisdiction.

He noted that the security agencies in the state, including units of the Nigerian Air Force, had been working collaboratively, adding that the synergy had enhanced the security of lives and property in the state.

He said, “We welcome you warmly, first of all to Akwa Ibom, and as a visitor, on your tour of duty to the state that is within your jurisdiction. We would like to celebrate the work that you have done already and particularly in collaboration with the Air Force. As a state, we take security seriously and work with our security team. The commander knows that we work as a team to ensure that we keep our people safe because it is the primary responsibility of any responsible government.’’

Mr Eno commended the cooperation and support of the mobility command to the state and lauded the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, for “his excellent, diligent, and professional service” to the country.

He, however, appealed for the continued support of the force in clearing the creeks and isolated islands of sea pirates and other criminals.

Earlier in his remarks, Mr Aneke expressed gratitude to the governor for the support, contribution, and collaboration the command had enjoyed from the state government.

According to him, the state and the force have remained strategic partners for years.

He added that the partnership had yielded immeasurable peace and stability, as well as economic growth for the people.

Mr Aneke expressed the commitment of NAF to continue working closely with the state government to ensure the safety of lives and property.

(NAN)