The Rivers State Government has donated an Agusta Westland (AW) 139 helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to enhance security efforts in the Niger Delta.
Speaking at the handover ceremony on March 5, 2025, at NAF Base, Port Harcourt, Governor Siminalayi Fubara emphasized his administration’s commitment to supporting the federal government in safeguarding national assets. He highlighted the Air Force’s critical role in combating security threats, particularly illegal oil bunkering, which has contributed to increased crude oil output and economic stability.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, expressed deep appreciation for Rivers State’s continued support, noting that the AW139’s advanced avionics and speed will significantly boost the NAF’s operational capabilities. He assured that training for pilots, engineers, and technicians is already underway, with infrastructure upgrades planned to maintain the aircraft’s efficiency.
Air Marshal Abubakar also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to modernizing the NAF, citing ongoing fleet expansions and the deployment of T-129 ATAK helicopters, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and other surveillance platforms to curb criminal activities.
He reaffirmed the NAF’s dedication to working with other security agencies to ensure lasting peace and economic growth in Rivers State and across Nigeria
