Fubara delivers residential quarters worth N454m to NAF officers

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has delivered residential quarters worth N454 million to officers of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

The governor explained that the residential building, constructed by the state government, was intended to complement the efforts of the military and the Federal Government in providing welfare support to servicemen.

He further stated that the housing facility, initiated in 2017 and revised from N212 million to N454 million, represents a modest contribution to the welfare of Air Force personnel in appreciation of the existing mutual collaboration in the fight against crime and criminality.

Governor Fubara made this statement during the inauguration of two blocks of 12 flats each of 2-bedroom NAF prototype residential buildings at the Port Harcourt NAF Base in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area on Monday.

He noted that the completion of the project demonstrates his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of the project are accessible to NAF officers.

The governor said, “This project that we are commissioning today did not start during our administration. It was conceived in 2017 and was not completed.

“But our government came in, and we were approached. Knowing the importance of the welfare of the Air Force officers and understanding that their comfort enhances their performance, we decided to complete it.

“Like the contractor said, the project was initiated in 2017 at the cost of N212 million. For one reason or another, it was not completed. When we came on board, we had to review it, and it was valued at over N454 million. We felt, what is N454 million compared to the support we are getting from the Nigerian Air Force?”

Governor Fubara stressed that the state government’s support should extend beyond the communities of the electorate to institutions playing critical roles in protecting lives and property and advancing the state’s interests.

He noted that the housing facility would contribute to the comfort of personnel, enhancing their performance and productivity.

The governor assured that his administration would continue to support all security agencies to strengthen collaboration in protecting the national economy and assets while addressing oil theft.

He said, “As a government, our support is not only for those who elected us or the communities under our care. We also need to support the agencies that protect lives and property in our state.

“We face challenges such as oil theft and vandalization of oil pipelines. These officers work tirelessly to secure these national treasures.

“Our contribution to their welfare may seem small, but it is a gesture to appreciate the sacrifices they make for us. This responsibility is not solely on Mr. President. We, too, must contribute to their welfare in our own capacity.”

The governor reiterated his commitment to making the 115 Special Operations Group Base of the NAF more attractive and envied by others. He assured that other requests made by the base were being considered and would be addressed in line with his administration’s commitment to listening and supporting institutions.

He added, “We use their airstrip; they are also part of the joint task force securing lives and property in Rivers State. We immediately approved and released the required funds, and today, we are witnessing the realization of this commitment.

“Our government will continue to support all security agencies in the State. We will collaborate to protect lives and property, ensure effective governance, and make our people happy.

“I assure you we will work with your leadership to make the 115 Special Operations Group Base more attractive. Other requests made by the commander are already being worked on because we want this base to enjoy effective operational systems and become the envy of all bases in Nigeria.”

Performing the inauguration, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, described the project as a testament to the commitment to the welfare of NAF personnel and the strong partnership between the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Air Force.

Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted that the project would significantly improve the quality of life for NAF personnel and their families, boost morale, and enhance civil-military cooperation, contributing to the operational effectiveness of the Air Force.

“Indeed, we are deeply indebted to the Rivers State Government for nearly six decades of support. As the saying goes, ‘One good turn deserves another.’ The Nigerian Air Force has reciprocated by contributing to the peace and security of the state through air operations against illegal oil bunkering.

“This has sustained the state’s economic lifeline and created an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. We have also granted the Rivers State Government unfettered access to our airfield facilities, providing security and handling services for the State-owned aircraft free of charge.

“This mutual cooperation exemplifies the strong partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and the Rivers State Government,” he added.

In his welcome address, the Commander of the 115 Special Operations Group, NAF Base, Port Harcourt, Air Commodore Ali H. Idris described the housing facility as a testament to Governor Fubara’s exemplary leadership in improving the welfare of NAF personnel, enhancing operational readiness, and strengthening the fight against crime in the state.

Providing a description of the project, Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Rowland Obed-Whyte, stated that the two blocks of 12 flats, each with 2 bedrooms, is a monumental project completed after being abandoned since its inception in 2017.

On behalf of the contracting firm, Tee Gay and Associates, Onyeama N. D. expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara for entrusting them with the project and supporting its completion to specification.