Tragedy was averted on Friday, 16 May 2025, when a gas explosion erupted at the Nobpet Filling Station, directly opposite the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The incident, which occurred around 4:11 pm, sent shockwaves through the area, triggering panic among residents and commuters.
However, a swift response by the NAF fire unit brought the situation under control before it could escalate.
“Upon hearing the explosion, the NAF fire team, located nearby at the Base, sprang into action, arriving at the scene within minutes.
“Working under intense heat and thick smoke, the firefighters battled the flames with remarkable professionalism and bravery, successfully extinguishing the fire and preventing it from spreading to adjoining buildings, vehicles, and homes.
“Beyond firefighting, the NAF once again demonstrated its deep commitment to public service,” a statement by NAF reads.
It was gathered that the base ambulance of NAF was immediately deployed, providing first aid and evacuating three injured civilians to the NAF Hospital (NAFRH) for urgent medical care.
The quick medical intervention helped stabilise the victims, further underscoring the NAF’s readiness to assist in emergencies, whether on the battlefield or within the community.
“This timely intervention reflects the Nigerian Air Force’s enduring commitment to its corporate social responsibility and its support to civil authorities, especially in times of crisis.
“It also highlights the benefits of recent upgrades to the NAF’s fire-fighting assets, initiated by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.
“These upgrades have significantly enhanced the Service’s emergency response capacity, ensuring that NAF fire units remain agile, efficient, and reliable,” NAF stated.
It added: “As calm returns to the affected area, the NAF remains on standby, ready to support not just in combat operations, but in safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure across the nation.
“In moments like this, the Air Force reaffirms its role not just as a defender of the skies, but also as a dependable partner to the Nigerian people”.