Odita Sunday 
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reinforced its Civil–Military Relations drive with the commissioning of a newly constructed classroom block and staff offices at 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, Sunday Kelvin Aneke. The honour was bestowed during the commissioning ceremony held on Friday, February 20, 2026.
The project, executed under the Chief of the Air Staff Special Intervention Project initiative, comprises a fully furnished block of three classrooms, a principal’s office and staff rooms. It was undertaken in honour of retired Air Vice Marshal Iboro Harry Etukudo, an indigene of the state.
Representing the CAS at the ceremony, the Chief of Civil–Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, described the intervention as a vital component of the NAF’s non-kinetic operations, noting that such projects are instrumental in winning hearts and minds while strengthening trust between the military and host communities.
Gabkwet explained that the Special Intervention Project was conceptualised to honour distinguished retired senior officers by contributing to the development of their home communities.
He disclosed that ten similar projects have so far been commissioned nationwide, attracting commendation from beneficiaries.
According to him, the initiative sustains the bond between retired officers and their roots while reinforcing the NAF’s constitutional mandate of safeguarding the nation and supporting socio-economic development.
In remarks conveyed through his representative, the CAS commended AVM Etukudo (Rtd) for facilitating the project and expressed confidence that the new facilities would significantly improve the quality of education in the area.
He urged students, staff and community members to make proper use of the facilities and ensure their maintenance.
The CAS also called on residents to continue to live peacefully and support security agencies with credible information to enhance ongoing efforts to rid the country of criminal elements. Youths in Edemaya and across Akwa Ibom were encouraged to take advantage of career opportunities within the Armed Forces.
In his remarks, AVM Etukudo (Rtd) expressed gratitude to the NAF for honouring him and his community. Reflecting on his 40-year military career which began in 1985, he described the intervention as a testament to the Service’s appreciation of his contributions to national and continental security.
He noted that the project marks the beginning of development at the permanent site of Edemaya Unity College, established by the community to accommodate students unable to secure admission into government secondary schools due to limited infrastructure.
He appealed to the state government to consider taking over and expanding the college to meet growing educational needs.
Representing Governor Umo Eno, the Commissioner for Education, Professor Ubong Essien Umoh, lauded the NAF for its commitment to grassroots development, noting that the intervention aligns with the administration’s drive to improve learning and living standards through modern infrastructure.
Community leaders and residents also expressed appreciation, presenting the CAS with a staff of honour as a symbol of friendship and partnership, as the event underscored the NAF’s commitment to nation-building through impactful community engagement.
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