23 whole views as we speak
Donation
By Desmond Ejibas
Gov. Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers has introduced the donation of a helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as a part of the continued efforts to extend Nigeria’s crude oil manufacturing.
Fubara handed over the refurbished Agusta AW139 helicopter to NAF at its 115 Special Operations Group base in Port Harcourt.
He acknowledged that his administration had absolutely supported President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to spice up crude oil manufacturing past two million barrels per day earlier than December.
According to him, the state authorities has additionally supplied important logistics to safety companies to safeguard lives, property, and demanding oil belongings in Rivers.
“This Agusta AW139 helicopter, which has been out of use for years, is a part of my administration’s dedication to supporting NAF’s operations in Rivers and the Niger Delta area.
“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 mentioned.
Fubara added that, along with the helicopter, the state authorities was at the moment resurfacing the Air Force base runway to facilitate seamless flight operations.
“We need to be remembered as an administration that paid severe consideration to the safety of lives and property of our folks.
“The support we have provided to our security agencies is a demonstration of our commitment to ensuring a secure Rivers State and Nigeria,” Fubara added.
The governor appealed to the Air Force management to deploy the plane for surveillance operations, notably inside the state and the broader the Niger Delta area.
Receiving the helicopter, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Hassan Abubakar, expressed gratitude to Fubara for collaborating with NAF to boost safety within the state and throughout the nation.
He famous that the Air Force had over time, persistently acquired logistics assist from successive administrations within the state.
“This is clear within the development of important infrastructure, together with 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,” he acknowledged.
Abubakar emphasised that the helicopter can be deployed for tactical airlift operations, search and rescue missions, and catastrophe reduction efforts.
“With its superior avionics, high-speed functionality, and flexibility, the helicopter will improve our capacity to conduct speedy 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,” he added.
Abubakar additional disclosed that NAF had initiated complete coaching programmes for Air Force pilots, engineers, and technicians to make sure the optimum utilisation of its fleet.
He additionally acknowledged that the Air Force had begun strengthening its upkeep infrastructure to make sure the sustainability and serviceability of its aircrafts.
He reaffirmed that NAF remained dedicated to collaborating with different safety companies to fight unlawful bunkering and all types of legal exercise.
According to him, by way of enhanced surveillance, precision air strikes, and joint job drive engagements, NAF will proceed to guard the nation’s very important sources and maritime area. (NAN)
Edited by Jane-Frances Oraka