The Rivers State Government has officially handed over an AW139 helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to enhance security operations in the Niger Delta region.
The aircraft, which had been grounded since 2020, is expected to bolster tactical airlift, search and rescue missions, and the protection of oil facilities in the state.
During the handover ceremony at the Airforce Base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, described the move as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to safeguarding the state and Niger Delta at large.
He noted that as a member of the Governors’ Forum Committee on the Protection of Oil Assets, it is his responsibility to support effective security operations in the region.
Governor Fubara explained that the helicopter had remained grounded due to contractual issues, as the company managing it failed to remit funds to the state government.
However, upon receiving a request from the Nigerian Air Force to use the aircraft for security purposes, the state executive council deliberated on it and approved the transfer without hesitation.
“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 voiced concerns about past instances where security assets meant for Rivers State were deployed elsewhere.
He described as embarrassing a recent donation of gunboats by the Inspector-General of Police for operations in Rivers, despite similar investments already made by both his administration and previous governments.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, commended the Rivers State Government for its longstanding partnership with the Air Force, dating back to the civil war era.
He praised Governor Fubara for approving the ongoing reconstruction of the runway and other facilities at the Air Force base in Port Harcourt.
“The security landscape in the country now demands a dynamic approach to achieve success,” Abubakar noted.
“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.”
He further revealed that the Air Force has already commenced training pilots and engineers to maintain the helicopter.
Abubakar also emphasized the importance of curbing oil theft, stating that increased security efforts have already contributed to a rise in crude oil output.
Air Vice-Marshal Elijah Ebiowe, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, expressed appreciation for the Rivers State Government’s support.
He highlighted that partnerships like these have strengthened the Air Force’s operational capabilities over the years, particularly as they expand infrastructure and acquire new hardware.
Before signing the official transfer documents, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, described the handover as another landmark achievement in the state’s security efforts.
He recalled previous donations of gunboats and armored personnel carriers (APCs) to security agencies, reinforcing the state’s commitment to protecting its people and critical national assets.
