The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commissioned a solar-powered mini-modern market at Oklenyi, Okpoga, in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State. The project was executed as part of the community service initiative of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal S.K. Aneke. The market was designed to provide traders with a more organised and modern trading environment while improving access to electricity for small-scale businesses in the community.
The commissioning ceremony took place on Tuesday, September 29, and was attended by senior military officers, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other dignitaries. Representing the Chief of the Air Staff at the commissioning was Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet. He dedicated the project to Air Vice Marshal Patrick Owoicho Obeya, Chairman of the Nigeria Air Force Centre of Excellence, in recognition of his service and longstanding connection to the community.
The Secretary to the Benue State Government (SSG), Mrs Deborah Aber, represented the state government and cut the tape to formally inaugurate the facility. The event was also attended by the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, Makurdi, Air Vice Marshal Michael Ekueme; General Officer Commanding, 5 Division, and Commander, Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara; and the Regent of the Okpoga Traditional Council, Chief Ogbe James Obeya.
The solar-powered market is expected to improve access to electricity for small-scale businesses in the community and provide traders with a more organised and modern trading environment. The project is part of the Nigerian Air Force's efforts to translate military leadership and community service into tangible benefits for residents, particularly traders and small-scale entrepreneurs.
The commissioning also provided an opportunity for the community to celebrate AVM Obeya, whose contributions and ties to Okpoga were cited as part of the inspiration behind the project. The event was seen as a way to recognise the service and dedication of AVM Obeya to the community. Other dignitaries present included Mr Lawrence Obeya, Deputy Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Mr Michael Obeya, Chairman of OBECON Group; and the Chairman of Okpokwu LGA, Mr Adam Inalegwu.
During the event, the Chairman of Okpokwu LGA, Mr Adam Inalegwu, assured residents that the Oklenyi Road in Okpoga would be tarred before Christmas Day 2026. This announcement was seen as a major development for the community, which has likely been awaiting the road construction project. The NAF's intervention in the community is part of its efforts to provide support and improve the living conditions of residents.
The NAF's community service initiative is aimed at providing tangible benefits to residents in communities where it operates. The commissioning of the solar-powered market in Okpoga is a testament to the NAF's commitment to community development and service. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and improve the livelihoods of traders and small-scale entrepreneurs in the community.
Key points
- The Nigerian Air Force has commissioned a solar-powered mini-modern market in Okpoga, Benue State, as part of its community service initiative.
- The project was executed in recognition of the service and longstanding connection of Air Vice Marshal Patrick Owoicho Obeya to the community.
- The market is expected to improve access to electricity for small-scale businesses and provide traders with a more organised and modern trading environment.
