The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has charged personnel to see the recent crash of a Nigerian Air Force MI-35P attack helicopter in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, as a setup for a comeback and improved safety measures.
Recall that the NAF helicopter had crashed and exploded on Friday, December 1, 2023, while on operations against economic saboteurs in the State. The five-member crew, however, escaped the accident with minor injuries.
The CAS immediately travelled to Port Harcourt to assess the situation, visited the crew members, and encouraged the personnel of 115 Special Operations Group (115 SOG).
A statement by the director of NAF public relations and information, Air Cdre Edward Gabkwet, said the Air Chief while addressing the personnel of 115 SOG, encouraged them to see the setback as a setup for a resilient comeback, channelling efforts toward thwarting the activities of economic saboteurs and countering oil theft.
He said, “You must therefore never be discouraged as the hopes of millions of Nigerians rest on our shoulders. The realization of these aspirations is hinged on our ability to combat all forms of criminality that threaten our peace and stability.”
Air Marshal Abubakar charged NAF personnel to see air accidents or mishaps as impetus to propel them towards seeking improved safety management measures, while remaining undeterred and focused in tackling the myriads of security threats facing the nation.
“Times like these are a sad reminder of the inherent risks in military aviation, especially when flying activities, occasioned by our current security challenges, have tremendously increased. As we continue to fly intensively, incidents are bound to occur. Nevertheless, we must continue to ensure we minimize the risk factors as reasonably practicable.”
Air Marshal Abubakar also commended the crew for the professional manner in which they handled the emergency situation they found themselves.
“Your actions were commendable and a decisive factor in mitigating the extent of damage to public property and loss of lives,” he added.
The CAS stated that 115 SOG has been well known for its gallantry and fighting spirit and the mere presence of the MI-35P helicopters on the battlefield has been a game changer.
He noted that the helicopters have, over the years, continued to strike fear deep into the hearts of terrorists and other criminals while at the same time boosting the morale of surface forces.
Air Marshal Abubakar assured troops of their welfare and other needs to ensure they effectively carry out their assigned duties.
He informed that he had directed for the immediate commencement of the accident investigation, “so that we can learn exactly what happened and prevent future occurrences.”
Earlier, the CAS had visited the five crew members of the ill-fated aircraft and directed the Commander of the Medical Centre to ensure they receive the utmost attention required.
