Gov Mbah a New Sheriff of Transformative Governance, Says Chief of the Air Staff

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has applauded the sweeping transformation and quality of governance taking place in Enugu State under Governor Peter Mbah, describing the governor as “a new sheriff in town” redefining leadership and development in the state.

Air Marshal Aneke made the commendation on Thursday during a courtesy visit to Governor Mbah at the Government House, Enugu, as part of his official working tour of the state. The visit also marked his first official engagement in Enugu following his appointment as Chief of the Air Staff by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The CAS expressed admiration for the rapid infrastructural and developmental strides of the Mbah administration, noting that the remarkable changes in the state were evident even before his aircraft landed.

According to him, the visible transformation underscored the governor’s visionary and results-driven leadership style.

“We are here because of the transformational and visionary leadership you are providing for this state. Even from the air, what I was seeing is not what I saw the last time I visited Enugu. It was very clear that a new sheriff is in town,” Aneke stated.

He further expressed pride in Governor Mbah’s performance, describing him as a worthy leader who has demonstrated commitment to governance and service delivery. Aneke also reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s readiness to strengthen its partnership with the state government to enhance security and economic prosperity.

The Air Chief commended the administration for its sustained support to the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies, emphasizing that such collaboration had significantly boosted operational efficiency and contributed to the peace, safety, and stability currently experienced in the state.

“Enugu State and the Nigerian Air Force have maintained a long-standing partnership. We appreciate the support your administration has given us. We are here to deepen that collaboration to ensure Enugu remains secure and continues to evolve into a thriving business hub,” he said.

Responding, Governor Mbah described Air Marshal Aneke as a distinguished son of Enugu State whose career has been marked by honour, excellence, and dedication to national service.

“When a son has discharged his duty with honour and excellence, both in career and service to the nation, it is only fitting to welcome him with pride. We are extremely proud of you,” the governor said.

Governor Mbah recalled the Air Chief’s exceptional commitment to national security, citing his prompt intervention during a security challenge in the state as a demonstration of professionalism and patriotism.

“I remember reaching out to you during a security challenge, and the speed of your response was remarkable. By the next day, you were already following up to confirm whether the situation had been resolved. That passion and sense of duty make us very proud,” Mbah noted.

The governor highlighted the effectiveness of the strong synergy between the state government and security agencies, particularly the Air Force, revealing that joint security operations had successfully dismantled several criminal hideouts that posed significant threats to public safety.

He explained that the state government had adopted a strategic approach of converting previously volatile areas into large-scale agricultural estates, thereby integrating security with economic development.

“Our strategy is clear: forests and idle lands must not become safe havens for criminal elements. We prefer to convert such areas into farms and economic hubs. Security and development must work hand in hand,” the governor stressed.

Mbah further assured the Nigerian Air Force of the state government’s readiness to expand areas of collaboration, including providing land for resettlement housing schemes, agricultural projects, and other welfare initiatives for serving and retired Air Force personnel.

He also commended the Air Force leadership for intensifying the fight against insurgency, banditry, and other security threats across the country, reiterating his administration’s commitment to sustaining cooperation with security agencies to guarantee lasting peace and inclusive development in Enugu State.

The visit underscored the strengthening partnership between the Enugu State Government and the Nigerian Air Force, reinforcing ongoing efforts to build a secure, economically vibrant, and globally competitive state.