By Nkechi Eze
A major disaster was averted in Port Harcourt on Friday, 16 May 2025, following a gas explosion at the Nobpet Filling Station, located directly opposite the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base. The incident, which occurred at approximately 4:11 p.m., sparked widespread panic among residents and commuters in the vicinity.
Thanks to the swift and coordinated response of the Nigerian Air Force fire unit stationed nearby, the blaze was brought under control within minutes. The NAF firefighters arrived promptly and, despite intense heat and dense smoke, successfully contained the fire, preventing it from spreading to nearby structures, vehicles, and residential areas.
In addition to firefighting, the NAF also provided immediate medical assistance. The Base ambulance was quickly dispatched to the scene, offering first aid and evacuating three injured civilians to the Nigerian Air Force Reference Hospital (NAFRH) for urgent treatment. The timely medical intervention proved critical in stabilizing the victims.
The incident underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s ongoing commitment to civil support operations and its role in community safety beyond conventional military duties. It also reflects the operational readiness of NAF emergency units, a capacity enhanced by recent upgrades to firefighting equipment and infrastructure under the leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.
This prompt and effective response not only mitigated what could have been a far more devastating outcome, but also reaffirmed the NAF’s dual role as a protector in both military and civilian spheres.
