The donation of an AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter by the Rivers State Government to the Nigerian Air Force has been clarified as a purely security-driven initiative, devoid of any political motivations. Governor Siminalayi Fubara emphasized this point during the official handover ceremony at the 115 Special Operations Group of the Nigerian Air Force Base in Port Harcourt. He explained that the donation is intended to bolster security operations, enhance aerial surveillance, and improve emergency response capabilities within Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta region. The gesture aligns with the state government’s commitment to protecting vital national economic assets, particularly oil installations, which are crucial for revenue generation and development. Fubara underscored the importance of supporting security agencies in their efforts to maintain stability and protect these assets, highlighting the state’s provision of logistical support not just to the Air Force, but also to the Army, Navy, Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS).
The governor further elaborated on the history of the helicopter, revealing that it had been left idle for an extended period due to a disagreement between the previous administration and Aero Contractors, the company originally contracted to operate the aircraft for commercial purposes. When the Nigerian Air Force expressed interest in acquiring the helicopter for security operations, the Rivers State Executive Council carefully deliberated on the request and ultimately decided that supporting the Air Force’s mission aligned with the state’s best interests. Fubara reiterated that the donation was not a political maneuver, stating explicitly that there were no quid pro quo arrangements involved. The sole objective, he emphasized, was to enhance security, protect lives and national assets, and ensure the smooth operation of critical infrastructure within Rivers State and the Niger Delta. He urged the Air Force to utilize the asset effectively to achieve these crucial security objectives.
Receiving the helicopter on behalf of the Nigerian Air Force, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, expressed profound gratitude to the Rivers State Government for its substantial contribution to national security. He lauded the donation as a significant step towards enhancing the Air Force’s operational capabilities. Abubakar explained that the AW139 helicopter, with its advanced avionics and high-speed capabilities, would significantly strengthen tactical airlift operations, search and rescue missions, and disaster relief efforts. The acquisition of this aircraft represents a tangible commitment to protecting lives and property across the country. He further confirmed that training programs for pilots, engineers, and technicians had already commenced to ensure the optimal utilization of the newly acquired helicopter. This proactive approach demonstrates the Air Force’s commitment to integrating the aircraft into its operations swiftly and effectively.
The Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal E.O.E. Ebiowei, echoed the Chief of Air Staff’s sentiments, acknowledging the ongoing collaboration between the Rivers State Government and the Air Force. He specifically highlighted the state government’s support in providing accommodation and facilitating seamless air operations in Port Harcourt. Ebiowei reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to operational excellence and assured that the helicopter would be deployed strategically to achieve national security objectives. This reflects the Air Force’s determination to maximize the utilization of this valuable asset to enhance its overall operational effectiveness. The official handover process was formalized with the signing of relevant documents by Dr. Tammy Danagogo, Secretary to the Rivers State Government, representing the state, and Air Commodore Haliru Badamasi, Director of Works, on behalf of the Nigerian Air Force. This act marked the official transfer of ownership and responsibility for the helicopter.
The donation of the AW139 helicopter signifies a substantial boost to the Nigerian Air Force’s capabilities in the Niger Delta region, a strategically important area for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. The region has historically faced security challenges, including piracy, oil theft, and militancy, which have often disrupted economic activities and posed threats to national security. The enhanced aerial surveillance and rapid response capabilities provided by the helicopter will be instrumental in combating these threats and ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure. The collaboration between the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Air Force exemplifies the importance of intergovernmental cooperation in addressing complex security issues.
Furthermore, the acquisition of the AW139 helicopter strengthens the Nigerian Air Force’s overall capacity for disaster relief and humanitarian assistance. Its advanced features and capabilities make it a valuable asset for responding to emergencies and providing aid in times of natural disasters or other crises. The deployment of this helicopter will enhance the Air Force’s ability to provide timely and effective assistance to affected populations, contributing to national resilience and disaster preparedness. The strategic deployment of the helicopter within the Niger Delta region will undoubtedly enhance security, bolster economic stability by protecting vital oil installations, and ultimately contribute to national development. The handover ceremony underscores the commitment of both the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Air Force to working collaboratively to ensure the safety and prosperity of the region and the nation as a whole.
