By Wilson Adekumola
The Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and his governor-colleague, Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde were among the dignitaries that attended the 59th anniversary celebration of Nigerian Air Force.
According to The PUNCH, the event was held at the Air Force Base, Emene, Enugu.
Also at the event were the Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, South, Amb. Taofeek Arapaja, and the PDP National Vice Chairman, South East, Chief Ali Odefa who were all received by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao.
Some of the events to mark the anniversary were aerial display and induction of new platforms comprising the DA-62 aircraft, and gala night/award of prizes.
Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Marshal Amao welcomed the governors and other dignitaries.
The Chief of the Air Staff hailed the host and Guest of Honour, Governor Ugwuanyi for standing with the Nigerian Air Force in Enugu.
He also expressed gratitude to the people of the state especially the host communities for living in harmony with the NAF.
While commending Governor Makinde of Oyo State for facilitating and sponsoring the air show/aerial display at the event, Sir Amao appreciated his unwavering support to the Nigerian Air Force.
Gov. Ugwuanyi who congratulated the Nigerian Air Force on its 59th anniversary celebration said the choice of Enugu as the venue for the national event gave him joy.
The governor said he is hopeful that the celebration in Enugu will open the frontiers for many other fruitful engagements between the state and the Nigerian Air Force.
He said his administration observed, with great admiration, the professionalism with which the NAF carried out operational successes it has recorded in several troubled spots across the country.
He, however, attributed the impressive achievements to the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration for providing and equipping personnel in the Service.
Governor Ugwuanyi expressed optimism that the Chief of the Air Staff that Enugu State will continue to provide all the necessary support to the Nigerian Air Force, especially through her various facilities in the state.
“On a final note, I once again express our heartfelt gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Chief of the Air Staff, officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force for the great job you are doing for the country and also congratulate you on this memorable occasion of your 59th anniversary,” the governor said.
