The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has expressed concern over the inadequate infrastructure at the Nigerian Air Force base in Gombe.
During a courtesy visit to the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, at the old banquet hall of the Gombe State Government House on Saturday, Abubakar appealed for the governor’s assistance in improving the facilities at the base.
Abubakar pointed out several critical issues at the base, including the lack of potable water supply, electricity, and proper road infrastructure.
He stated that those deficiencies were hindering the full operationalization of the base, which was crucial for the effective functioning of the Nigerian Air Force in the region.
“This will enable us to operationalize and enhance facilities at the base more expediently. Any assistance will go a long way in ensuring the base is fully operationalized as quickly as possible,” Abubakar stated.
The Chief of Air Staff noted that the Nigerian Air Force’s presence in Gombe State began modestly in 2015 with the establishment of the 175 Nigerian Air Force detachment.
Following this, the state allocated over 230 acres of land at the Lawanti International Airport, leading to the establishment of the 109 Combat Renaissance Group in 2019.
Despite these advancements, the lack of necessary infrastructure and accommodation has slowed progress.
Abubakar also pointed out that the base is not connected to the national power grid, with the required connection being prohibitively expensive due to the need for transformers and extensive cabling.
In response, Governor Yahaya assured the Air Force chief that his administration would address some of the pressing needs, particularly the provision of water, the construction of essential structures, and ensuring adherence to protocols before allocating land near the base.
“We thank you for your support to the state; Gombe State will continue to support and stand by you,” Governor Yahaya affirmed, pledging his administration’s commitment to enhancing the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force in the state.
Air Chief decries poor infrastructure at Gombe base, seeks governor’s support