The 115 Special Operations Group (115 SOG) unit of the Nigerian Air Force’s combat helicopter, executed 495 missions in support of counter–illegal bunkering and protection of critical oil infrastructure in the Niger Delta in 2025.

The Chief of the Air Force Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, disclosed this during his operational visit to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Addressing personnel during the tour, Aneke urged them to remain vigilant and continue to “fly smart” by ensuring that all operations are anchored on timely and actionable intelligence.

He emphasised that every mission must be purposeful and deliver measurable operational results in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic assets, reaffirming the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s vital oil and gas assets in the Niger Delta.

Earlier, the air chief paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, where he expressed appreciation for the State Government’s sustained support to the Nigerian Air Force in the State.

He acknowledged the State Government’s contributions, including the handover of an Agusta 139 helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force, the rehabilitation and resurfacing of the runway and aprons at NAF Base, Port Harcourt, the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy for the Base, and the provision of two blocks of twelve two-bedroom residential accommodation units for NAF personnel.

“These interventions have significantly strengthened the Air Force’s operational readiness and its capacity to respond effectively to emerging security challenges within the Niger Delta region,” he said.

In his response, the Governor reaffirmed the Rivers State Government’s commitment to sustaining its partnership with the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies in ensuring peace and stability within the State.

He praised the Nigerian Air Force for its critical role in protecting strategic national assets and combating economic sabotage in the Niger Delta, noting that “security remains a prerequisite for economic growth and development”.

Fubara assured of continued support in strengthening the operational presence of the Nigerian Air Force in Rivers State, adding “the collaboration between the State Government and the Service will continue to contribute to safeguarding lives, protecting critical infrastructure, and advancing the prosperity of the State and the nation”.

Also, the Chief of Air Staff was in Bayelsa State, and paid a visit to Governor Duoye Diri, emphasising the importance of sustained civil–military cooperation in safeguarding the Niger Delta region.

According to Aneke, Bayelsa State occupies a strategic place within Nigeria’s security and economic architecture.

He said that the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to working closely with the State Government and other stakeholders to ensure the protection of lives, critical national assets and sustained peace across the Niger Delta.

Diri commended the Nigerian Air Force for its continued role in maintaining stability and protecting vital oil and gas infrastructure in the region.