The Rivers State Government has officially handed over an AW139 helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to strengthen security operations in the Niger Delta region. The helicopter, which had been grounded since 2020 due to contractual issues, is now expected to play a key role in tactical airlift, search and rescue missions, and the protection of vital oil facilities in the state.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!During the handover ceremony at the Air Force Base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, emphasized that this move reflects the state government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of both Rivers and the larger Niger Delta region. As a member of the Governors’ Forum Committee on the Protection of Oil Assets, Governor Fubara affirmed his responsibility to support effective security measures in the region.
He explained that the helicopter had remained inactive for a period because the company managing it had failed to remit funds to the state government. However, upon receiving a request from the Nigerian Air Force to utilize the aircraft for security operations, the state executive council immediately approved its transfer, prioritizing the region’s safety.
“This is not about politics; it is a sincere move to improve national security and protect critical assets,” Fubara stated. “Our only request is that this helicopter be used primarily for the security of Rivers State and the entire Niger Delta. We are not giving this in exchange for anything, but in support of the President’s efforts to improve security in the country.”
Governor Fubara also raised concerns over past instances where security assets meant for Rivers State were deployed to other areas. He cited the recent donation of gunboats by the Inspector-General of Police for operations in Rivers as an example, despite similar investments made by his administration and prior governments.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, commended the Rivers State Government for its longstanding partnership with the Air Force, a relationship that dates back to the Civil War era. He praised Governor Fubara for approving the ongoing reconstruction of the runway and facilities at the Air Force base in Port Harcourt.
Abubakar stated, “The security landscape in the country now demands a dynamic approach to achieve success. This donation is not just an addition to our fleet but a bold statement of commitment to security. It will aid in tactical airlift, search and rescue, and humanitarian operations.”
Additionally, the Air Force has already started training pilots and engineers to ensure the maintenance and operational readiness of the helicopter. Abubakar also stressed the need to combat oil theft, noting that the recent increase in security efforts has contributed to a rise in crude oil output in the country.
Air Vice-Marshal Elijah Ebiowe, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, expressed gratitude for the Rivers State Government’s support. He emphasized that such partnerships have strengthened the operational capabilities of the Air Force, particularly as it expands its infrastructure and acquires new hardware.
Before signing the official transfer documents, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, the Secretary to the State Government, highlighted the handover as a significant achievement in the state’s ongoing efforts to secure its people and national assets. He recalled previous donations of gunboats and armored personnel carriers (APCs) to security agencies, further underlining the state’s unwavering commitment to enhancing security.
This collaboration is expected to significantly boost the security landscape in the Niger Delta and reinforce efforts to safeguard the region’s critical infrastructure.
