Rivers Donates Helicopter to Air Force to Boost Crude Oil Production Efforts

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has donated a refurbished Agusta AW139 helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) at its 115 Special Operations Group base in Port Harcourt. The move is part of a wider plan to increase Nigeria’s crude oil production and enhance security in the region.

Fubara noted his administration’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s goal of raising crude output beyond two million barrels per day before December, adding that the Rivers State government has provided significant logistics to security agencies to safeguard lives, property, and vital oil assets.

“This Agusta AW139 helicopter, which has been out of use for years, is part of my administration’s commitment to supporting NAF’s operations in Rivers and the Niger Delta region,”Fubara said.“Furthermore, backing President Tinubu’s efforts to increase crude oil production is beneficial to us; if oil production rises, it will generate more revenue for Rivers State.”

He also highlighted ongoing resurfacing work on the Air Force base runway to enable seamless flight operations:

“We want to be remembered as an administration that paid serious attention to the security of lives and property of our people.The support we have provided to our security agencies is a demonstration of our commitment to ensuring a secure Rivers State and Nigeria.”

Receiving the helicopter, Chief of Air Staff Air Marshall Hassan Abubakar thanked Fubara for working with NAF to bolster security in the state and nationwide. He emphasized that previous administrations in Rivers had also offered consistent support, citing various infrastructure projects at the base.

“This is evident in the construction of essential infrastructure, including perimeter fencing, residential blocks, and a VIP lounge.More recently, Gov. Fubara approved the rehabilitation of the runway and aprons here at the 115 Special Operations Group base,”Abubakar stated.

He explained that the helicopter would be used for tactical airlift operations, search and rescue, and disaster relief:

“With its advanced avionics, high-speed capability, and versatility, the helicopter will enhance our ability to conduct rapid response missions and humanitarian operations.The addition of this aircraft to our fleet further underscores our commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians.”

Abubakar added that NAF has initiated comprehensive training programs for pilots, engineers, and technicians to optimize fleet usage, alongside strengthening maintenance infrastructure to ensure aircraft serviceability. He reaffirmed NAF’s commitment to working with other security agencies to combat illegal bunkering and criminal activities:

“Through enhanced surveillance, precision air strikes, and joint task force engagements, NAF will continue to protect the nation’s vital resources and maritime domain.”