Makinde commissions Nigeria Air Force School of Finance in Ibadan
…Says transforming Nigeria is a collective responsibility
Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has praised the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for enhancing national security and institutional transparency through the establishment of the Nigeria Air Force School of Finance and Accounts in Ibadan. The commendation came on Wednesday during the official commissioning of the facility, located in Ajia, Ibadan. Governor Makinde, who was represented by the Director-General of Operation Burst, Col. Oladipo Ajibola (retd), credited the Air Force’s leadership, under Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, for its reform initiatives.
In a statement released by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Makinde described the siting of the school in Ibadan as a reflection of the state’s collaboration with the military and its contribution to national development.
“The NAF School of Finance and Accounts is a landmark institution that will play a crucial role in strengthening the financial management capacity of our Air Force personnel and other services.
“This moment is not merely about unveiling a new facility but about deepening professionalism, integrity, and excellence in financial administration within our Armed Forces,” the governor said.
He continued, “This school will serve as a hub of expertise, delivering specialised training in finance administration, budgeting, auditing, and resource management, customised to the unique demands of the military. It will empower officers, Airmen, and Airwomen with the tools required to uphold accountability and prevent financial irregularities.”
Governor Makinde stated that the institution’s significance would extend beyond the military, reinforcing financial discipline across the public sector.
At the commissioning ceremony, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, spoke on the strategic importance of Ibadan to the Air Force’s history, noting that it once hosted the now-defunct Mobility Command.
He explained that the decision to site the school in Ibadan was deliberate, pointing to the city’s long-standing role in NAF operations.
He also thanked the Oyo State Government for providing the land and for its ongoing support, saying, “This project speaks to the importance of what we are commissioning today.”
Air Marshal Abubakar further commended Governor Makinde’s administration, remarking that Oyo State had experienced sweeping reforms since 2019. “Your leadership has ushered in significant advancements in technology and economic development,” he said.
He noted that out of the 18 projects scheduled for the school, 12 had been completed and were ready for use, while the remaining six were in various phases of development.
The commissioning event served as a reaffirmation of the cooperation between the Oyo State Government and the Nigerian Armed Forces, reflecting a joint commitment to education, institutional advancement, and national service.
In a related development, Governor Makinde has called on citizens to actively contribute to Nigeria’s progress, urging them not to leave the burden of transformation solely to political officeholders.
The governor made this appeal on Thursday during a burial and thanksgiving service for Chief (Mrs) Florence Adeola Adeoye (née Latinwo), held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Yemetu, Ibadan.
Paying heartfelt tribute to the late matriarch, Makinde described her as a pivotal figure during his upbringing, noting that her character and close relationship with his family had a lasting impact on his life.
Reflecting during the service, he said, “The preacher reminded us that we all have a part to play in setting Nigeria back on course. That is absolutely true. You get the kind of leadership you deserve.
“I was raised in this community, and everything I have become is shaped by the values of this environment. Our mother, whom we are honouring today, was very close to my biological mother. They both worshipped in this church. Mama was among the last set of people to influence my character.”
He added, “I can confidently say Mama lived a good life. We are grateful to God for her time with us. She passed at 85, and though we would have wished for her to reach 90, we give thanks for the life she lived.”
During his sermon, the Vicar of the Church, Venerable Festus Omowole, commended Governor Makinde for the development efforts recorded under his tenure, particularly in the area of security. He also encouraged the congregation to live righteously and reflect on life’s transience.
The service was attended by several notable figures, including former Governor Senator Rashidi Ladoja and his wife, Chief Mrs. Mutiat Ladoja; Chief Bayo Lawal, Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties; Revd Idowu Ogedengbe, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Administration; and Revd. Femi Ibikunle, Special Assistant on Interfaith, among other dignitaries.
