NAF Upgrades Air Power, Readiness with New Runway, Apron in Rivers
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken another major step towards enhancing its operational readiness and air power with the commissioning of a reconstructed runway and military apron in Rivers State.
The facilities, commissioned by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, are expected to improve aircraft deployment, maintenance, turnaround time and the overall effectiveness of air operations in the South-South region.
The project is part of ongoing efforts by the NAF leadership to strengthen critical infrastructure and improve the Service’s capacity to respond swiftly to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Air Marshal Aneke commended the Rivers State Government, led by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, for funding and supporting the reconstruction of the airport facilities.
He described the intervention as a significant example of state-level support for national defence, noting that the Rivers State Government had also contributed to national security efforts through the handover of an AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force.
According to the CAS, the investments demonstrate the state government’s commitment to strengthening security in Rivers State while contributing to wider national security objectives.
Aneke stressed that reliable aviation infrastructure was essential to effective military operations, noting that the reconstructed runway and apron would increase the number of missions the airport could support.
“The new runway and apron will also increase our readiness, increase the number of missions the airport can support, and make our fleet more effective,” he said.
He explained that the upgraded facilities would improve surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, facilitate faster aircraft turnaround and enable rapid deployment in response to threats including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, piracy, organised crime and illegal bunkering.
Beyond military operations, the facilities are expected to strengthen the NAF’s capacity to respond to emergencies and humanitarian crises.
The improved infrastructure will support medical evacuations, search-and-rescue operations, disaster response and rapid transportation during emergencies such as floods and epidemics in Rivers State and neighbouring areas.
The CAS expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continued support for defence infrastructure, equipment acquisition and personnel welfare.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, heads of security and intelligence agencies, contractors, engineers, project managers, supervisors and NAF personnel involved in the project.
Aneke particularly commended the professionalism of those who ensured the project was delivered within the stipulated timeframe without disrupting ongoing operations.
He also appreciated the surrounding communities for their cooperation throughout the project.
The commissioning marks another milestone in the NAF’s efforts to develop a more agile, responsive and capable force.
With the upgraded facilities now available for security operations, pilot training, logistics and humanitarian missions, the Air Force is expected to further strengthen its ability to respond to national security threats and emergencies.
The CAS described the project as the product of “a shared vision, partnership, and careful planning,” expressing confidence that it would contribute to “peace, security, and prosperity in Rivers State and Nigeria.”
