By Bako Christopher
Yenagoa, Nigeria – The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, on Saturday commissioned a special intervention project in Biseni Clan, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, executed in honour of Air Vice Marshal Elijah Ebiowe, a distinguished son of the community.
The project, unveiled as part of NAF’s civil-military relations drive, is aimed at strengthening ties with host communities and supporting grassroots development under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, AVM MN Onyebashi, said the intervention reflects NAF’s commitment to building trust and cooperation with communities it serves and protects.
“Civil-military relations, which thrive on constant, robust and mutually beneficial interaction between the military and civil society, have emerged as a panacea for positively shaping our national security architecture,” AVM Onyebashi said.
“As a critical element of Nigeria’s national power, the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to special intervention projects that endear our service to the people and create positive implications for ongoing operations nationwide.”
Fully funded by the Chief of the Air Staff, the facility comprises a 2-bedroom flat for the Principal and 4 single-bedroom flats for teaching staff of Biseni Secondary School.
According to NAF, over 18 similar projects have been sited across the country in communities where senior officers are serving. Feedback from benefiting communities, the Air Force said, indicates the projects have met expectations and further endeared NAF to local populations.
AVM Elijah Ebiowe, an alumnus of Biseni Secondary School in whose honour the project was executed, described the quarters as an investment in teachers and in the future of education at the grassroots.
He noted that improving educators’ living conditions will boost staff retention and quality of learning in Biseni Clan.
AVM Ebiowe, whose late father was the pioneer Principal of the school established in 1981, called the intervention “a bridge between past and future generations” and a symbol of partnership between the military, government, and community.
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, commended NAF and described the project as a clear example of partnership that aligns with his administration’s agenda to take development to the grassroots.
“This project will have a lasting positive impact on our young citizens and demonstrates NAF’s commitment not only to national security but also to the socio-economic wellbeing of our people,” the Governor said.
HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV, Chairman of the Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers, expressed concern over the neglect of the Niger Delta and called for more infrastructural development in Biseni and across the region. He commended the CAS and applauded AVM Ebiowe for remembering his alma mater.
The Principal of Biseni Secondary School, Mr. Larry George, expressed appreciation to the Chief of Air Staff, AVM Ebiowe, and Governor Diri, saying the project marks a new chapter for the school and will inspire students to “dream bigger and aim higher.”
The project was commissioned by the SSG, on behalf of the Governor.
Other highlights included pledges of a 3.5KVA Solar Power System by the SSG, Prof. Ayawei; Computer Sets by the GM of Bayelsa State Electricity Company, Engr. Olice Kemenanabo; and Classroom Desks by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gentle Emelah, to be delivered within two weeks.
Dignitaries present included Hon. Henry Marah and Hon. Kambai Samuel Kozah of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, BECL MD Engr. Olice Kemenanabo, DG Bayelsa Due Process Bureau Hon. Aaron Timiye, Yenagoa LGA Chairman Hon. Bulodisiye Ndiwari, Paramount Ruler of Biseni HRH David Obuma, traditional rulers, ANCOPSS, and other stakeholders.
NAF reaffirmed its commitment to national development through initiatives that promote education, community welfare, and mutual trust with host communities.
