The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reinforced its Civil–Military Relations (CMR) drive with the commissioning of a newly constructed and furnished block of classrooms and staff offices at the permanent site of Edemaya Unity College in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
In recognition of the Service’s sustained developmental interventions, the Edemaya community conferred the traditional title “UFAN EDEMAYA” — meaning Friend of the People of Edemaya — on the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, during the ceremony held on 20 February 2026.
A statement explained that the honour underscores the deepening bond between the NAF and communities across Nigeria.
Executed under the Chief of the Air Staff Special Intervention Project initiative, undertaken in honour of retired Air Vice Marshal Iboro Harry Etukudo, comprises three fully furnished classrooms, a principal’s office, and staff rooms. Representing the CAS, the Chief of Civil–Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, described the intervention as “a critical component of the NAF’s non-kinetic line of operations,” noting that such initiatives are essential for winning hearts and minds while fostering enduring trust between the military and the civil populace.
He further explained that the initiative was designed to honour distinguished retired senior officers by contributing meaningfully to the development of their home communities, with ten similar projects already commissioned nationwide.
The CAS commended Air Vice Marshal Etukudo (Rtd) for his thoughtful choice of project, expressing confidence that the facilities would enhance educational standards in the area. He urged the community to maintain the infrastructure responsibly and to continue supporting security agencies through peaceful coexistence and credible information sharing. Representing Governor Pastor Umo Eno, the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Professor Ubong Essien Umoh, lauded the NAF’s commitment to grassroots development, affirming that the project aligns with the state’s development agenda. The event, marked by gratitude from community leaders and residents, reaffirmed the NAF’s enduring commitment to nation-building through impactful community engagement.
