The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has received AgustaWestland (AW) 139 helicopters donated by the Rivers State Government to complement ongoing efforts by the Federal Government of Nigeria further to safeguard critical national assets in the Niger Delta region.
The governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, presented the aircraft to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, at NAF Base, Port Harcourt, emphasising that the donation aligns with his government’s efforts to complement the Federal Government’s initiatives in bolstering national security.
A statement by the Deputy NAF spokesman, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, said the Governor reiterated his administration’s dedication to supporting the NAF and other security agencies in protecting lives, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and sustaining economic stability.
Fubara noted that the Air Force’s presence has been instrumental in combating security threats, particularly illegal oil bunkering, and ensuring stability in the Niger Delta region.
He highlighted that Nigeria has witnessed an increase in crude oil output, reflecting the effectiveness of ongoing combined efforts of the Nigerian security agencies in protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure.
In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, expressed deep appreciation for the longstanding partnership between the NAF and Rivers State, which dates back to the establishment of NAF Base, Port Harcourt, during the Nigerian Civil War.
He highlighted the state’s ongoing support, including infrastructure upgrades and recent runway rehabilitation at the NAF Base.
The CAS explained that the AW139’s advanced avionics, high-speed capabilities, and versatility will enhance the NAF’s capacity for rapid response missions.
He assured the Air Force that comprehensive training had already begun for pilots, engineers, and technicians to ensure effective deployment.
Additionally, efforts are underway to strengthen maintenance infrastructure, ensuring the helicopter’s long-term operational efficiency.
Air Marshal Abubakar thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to modernising the NAF, noting that ongoing fleet expansion and infrastructure upgrades have significantly bolstered operational readiness.
He emphasised that these efforts enhance the Air Force’s capability to address evolving security challenges and reaffirm the government’s dedication to a more vigorous, resilient national defence.
The CAS also disclosed that the NAF had prioritised the deployment of newly acquired T-129 ATAK helicopters for combat operations against illegal oil bunkering and crude oil theft.
He further revealed that, besides these advanced attack helicopters, the NAF has deployed Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and other cutting-edge surveillance and strike platforms to bolster security operations.
These efforts, he emphasised, are aimed at curbing all forms of criminality and ensuring that Rivers State and the nation at large remain safe and thriving hubs for economic activities. Nigerians can be assured that NAF remains fully committed to collaborating with other security agencies to ensure a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
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