Rivers Government Donates Helicopter to NAF to Enhance Fight Against Oil Theft
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has received an Agusta Westland (AW) 139 helicopter from the Rivers State Government to support the ongoing federal efforts to protect critical national assets in the Niger Delta region.
At a ceremony held at NAF Base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, handed over the helicopter to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar. The governor emphasized that the donation was part of his administration’s commitment to supporting federal initiatives aimed at enhancing national security.
According to a statement from the Deputy NAF spokesperson, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, Governor Fubara reiterated his administration’s dedication to assisting the NAF and other security agencies in safeguarding lives, protecting critical infrastructure, and maintaining economic stability.
He further noted that the Nigerian Air Force has been instrumental in combating illegal oil bunkering and ensuring stability in the Niger Delta, which has contributed to a rise in Nigeria’s crude oil output.
In his remarks, Air Marshal Abubakar expressed profound gratitude for the long-standing partnership between the NAF and Rivers State, dating back to the establishment of NAF Base in Port Harcourt during the Nigerian Civil War. He also acknowledged the state’s continuous support, including recent infrastructure improvements such as runway rehabilitation at the NAF base.
The CAS explained that the AW139’s advanced avionics, high-speed capabilities, and versatility would enhance the NAF’s ability to respond rapidly to security threats. He assured that training for pilots, engineers, and technicians is already underway to ensure the helicopter’s effective use. Efforts are also being made to strengthen maintenance infrastructure to guarantee long-term operational efficiency.
Air Marshal Abubakar further expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his continued commitment to modernizing the NAF, noting that fleet expansion and infrastructure upgrades have significantly improved the Air Force’s operational readiness. These efforts are expected to bolster the NAF’s ability to tackle evolving security challenges and reinforce the government’s commitment to strengthening national defense.
Additionally, the CAS revealed that the NAF had prioritized the deployment of newly acquired T-129 ATAK helicopters in the fight against illegal oil bunkering and crude oil theft. He also highlighted the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and other advanced surveillance and strike platforms as part of the NAF’s comprehensive security strategy.
These initiatives are designed to curb criminal activity and ensure that Rivers State, as well as the entire nation, remains a safe and economically vibrant region. The NAF remains fully committed to collaborating with other security agencies to ensure a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
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