Rivers State Hands Over AW139 Helicopter To NAF To Boost Security Operations

The Rivers State Government has officially transferred an AW139 helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to bolster security operations in the Niger Delta region. The aircraft, which had been non-operational since 2020 due to contractual disputes, is expected to enhance tactical airlift, search and rescue missions, and the protection of vital oil installations in the state………READ MORE 

During the handover ceremony at the Air Force Base in Port Harcourt, Governor Siminalayi Fubara emphasized that the move was purely strategic, aimed at supporting national security efforts rather than serving any political interests. He clarified that the helicopter had been grounded because the managing company failed to remit funds to the state government.

Following a formal request from the Nigerian Air Force, the state executive council approved the transfer without hesitation. Governor Fubara stressed that while the aircraft was donated in good faith, it should primarily be used for securing Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta region. He also expressed concerns over previous instances where security assets intended for the state were reassigned elsewhere, citing the recent donation of gunboats by the Inspector-General of Police despite the state’s significant investments in security infrastructure.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, commended the Rivers State Government for its longstanding partnership with the Air Force, noting that the current security challenges demand a more dynamic approach. He described the donation as a major boost to national security efforts, highlighting its role in tactical airlift, search and rescue, and humanitarian missions.

Additionally, Air Vice-Marshal Elijah Ebiowe, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, noted that collaborations like this have strengthened the Air Force’s operational capacity by expanding infrastructure and enhancing its fleet.

Before signing the official transfer documents, the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, lauded the handover as a significant milestone in the state’s security strategy. He referenced past donations of gunboats and armored personnel carriers (APCs) to security agencies, underscoring Rivers State’s continued commitment to safeguarding its residents and critical national assets.