The Rivers State Government has donated an AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to strengthen efforts in protecting critical national infrastructure in the Niger Delta region.
According to Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force Group Captain Kabiru Ali, speaking at the handover ceremony at NAF Base, Port Harcourt, Governor Siminalayi Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing national security in collaboration with the Federal Government. He highlighted the Air Force’s vital role in combating security threats such as illegal oil bunkering, which has contributed to increased crude oil output and economic stability.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, expressed appreciation for Rivers State’s longstanding support, citing recent infrastructure upgrades, including the rehabilitation of the NAF Base runway. He praised the AW139’s advanced capabilities, noting that the aircraft would enhance rapid response operations. Training for pilots, engineers, and technicians is already underway, with additional efforts focused on maintenance infrastructure for sustained operational efficiency.
Air Marshal Abubakar also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to modernizing the NAF, citing ongoing fleet expansions and infrastructure upgrades. He revealed that newly acquired T-129 ATAK helicopters, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and advanced surveillance platforms are being deployed to combat illegal oil activities and other security challenges.
He assured Nigerians that the NAF, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains dedicated to ensuring national stability, economic growth, and a secure environment.
