Rivers governor, Siminalayi Fubara has asked the Nigerian Air force to support efforts of his administration in the fight against economic sabotage, criminal damage of pipelines and theft through illegal bunkering of petroleum products.
Governor Fubara made the demand when he received Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, on courtesy call at Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
Fubara noted that the nation’s economy is facing difficult times with attendant consequences on Nigerians as a result of the activities of economic saboteurs. He therefore urged the Air Force not to leave the battle against the oil thieves to the Navy or the government alone.
The Governor called for effective synergy and collaboration between the security agencies and the Rivers State government in identifying, arresting and prosecuting criminals elements sabotaging the national economy whether they on land, sea or air.
“I want to tell you, the entire Airforce, that we are having a difficult time in this country, so try as much as you can to see what you can do, we are ready to work with you to reduce economic sabotage. Illegal bunkering is a big issue and it is something not to leave in the hands of the Navy or the Army, but every body needs to work together.
“Those things we can’t see while on ground, you can access from aerial view. When we work together, I believe nothing is impossible to conquer. I appeal to you to order the commander in charge of this base to work with us, because we intend to start a new fighting arrangement against illegal bunkering activities.”
Fubara assured that the State Commissioner for Special Projects will be directed to do assessment of what is left to be done on the Runway and the two blocks of buildings as accommodations for Airforce officers.
In his response, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar said he was in the State to inspect facilities at 115 Special Operations Group and also interact with the Airforce personnel.
He commended governor Fubara for sustaining the relationship between the State government and the Airforce and prioritizing issues related to education and youth empowerment to reduce security challenges in the state.
