As part of the ongoing efforts to increase Nigeria’s crude oil production, Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara has announced the donation of a helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
At the NAF’s 115 Special Operations Group base in Port Harcourt, Fubara turned over the refurbished Agusta AW139 helicopter.
He said his administration had fully supported President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to increase crude oil production beyond two million barrels per day before December.
He claims that in order to protect people, property, and vital oil resources in Rivers, the state government has also given security forces substantial logistical support.
“This Agusta AW139 helicopter, which has been out of use for years, is part of my administration’s commitment to supporting NAF’s operations in Rivers and the Niger Delta region.
“Furthermore, backing President Tinubu’s efforts to increase crude oil production is beneficial to us; if oil production rises, it will generate more revenue for Rivers State,” he said.
Fubara added that, in addition to the helicopter, the state government was currently resurfacing the Air Force base runway to facilitate seamless flight operations.
“We want to be remembered as an administration that paid serious attention to the security of lives and property of our people.
“The support we have provided to our security agencies is a demonstration of our commitment to ensuring a secure Rivers State and Nigeria,” Fubara added.
The governor urged the Air Force leadership to use the plane for surveillance missions, especially in the state and the larger Niger Delta area.
Air Marshall Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, accepted the helicopter and thanked Fubara for working with the NAF to improve security in the state and nationwide, pointing out that the Air Force had continuously benefited from logistical support from the state’s successive administrations over the years.
“This is evident in the construction of essential infrastructure, including perimeter fencing, residential blocks, and a VIP lounge.
“More recently, Gov. Fubara approved the rehabilitation of the runway and aprons here at the 115 Special Operations Group base,” he stated.
Abubakar emphasised that the helicopter would be deployed for tactical airlift operations, search and rescue missions, and disaster relief efforts.
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“With its advanced avionics, high-speed capability, and versatility, the helicopter will enhance our ability to conduct rapid response missions and humanitarian operations.
“The addition of this aircraft to our fleet further underscores our commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians,” he added.
Abubakar further disclosed that the NAF had initiated comprehensive training programmes for Air Force pilots, engineers, and technicians to ensure the optimal utilisation of its fleet.
He also stated that the Air Force had begun strengthening its maintenance infrastructure to ensure the sustainability and serviceability of its aircrafts.
He reaffirmed that NAF remained committed to collaborating with other security agencies to combat illegal bunkering and all forms of criminal activity.
According to him, through enhanced surveillance, precision air strikes, and joint task force engagements, NAF will continue to protect the nation’s vital resources and maritime domain.
