Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has pledged to deepen collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force to enhance security and protect critical economic infrastructure in the state.
Governor Fubara made the commitment on Thursday while receiving the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at Government House, Port Harcourt. Aneke was on a courtesy visit to thank the state government for donating an aircraft to the Air Force last year.
Congratulating Aneke on his appointment as the 23rd Chief of Air Staff, the governor noted that Rivers State has maintained a long-standing partnership with the Air Force, predating his administration. He said successive governments in the state had consistently supported the military in logistics, transportation and security operations.
Fubara recalled that when the Port Harcourt International Airport was temporarily closed for rehabilitation, the Air Force Base in Port Harcourt provided alternative air transportation services for the state until the airport reopened.
He explained that the aircraft donation was approved by the State Executive Council after it was determined that the asset was no longer in use by the state government. According to him, transferring it to the Air Force would strengthen security operations, particularly in tackling pipeline vandalism and other criminal activities affecting the region’s economy.
“As a responsible government, we must do everything within our power to safeguard lives, property and critical economic facilities,” the governor said.
In his response, Air Marshal Aneke described the visit as his first official engagement with the Rivers State Government since assuming office. He highlighted the strategic importance of Rivers State to Nigeria’s oil, gas and maritime sectors and commended the state government for its sustained support.
The Air Force chief specifically appreciated the donation of an Agusta 139 helicopter, noting that although the aircraft requires funding to restore it to full operational capacity, it would significantly enhance security operations once redeployed.
Aneke also lauded the state government for rehabilitating and resurfacing the runway and apron at the Air Force Base in Port Harcourt, installing runway lighting and constructing perimeter fencing. He described the facility as a strategic asset located in the heart of the city.
He further thanked the governor for providing two blocks of 12 two-bedroom apartments for Air Force personnel, saying the gesture had improved the welfare of officers and boosted operational readiness.
The Chief of Air Staff also acknowledged the governor’s promise to support a school for children with special needs managed by the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association, describing it as a significant contribution to the welfare of service families.
Aneke, however, appealed to the state government to facilitate the transfer of the state primary school within the Air Force Base, as well as the Mother and Child Hospital at the base, to the Air Force for improved management. He noted that about 80 per cent of patients treated at the Air Force Hospital are civilians from surrounding communities, underscoring the military’s contribution to healthcare delivery in the state.
