Nigerian Navy To Strengthen Maritime Security With Establishment Of Naval Base In Kebbi

The Nigerian Navy Headquarters, Abuja, has approved the establishment of a naval base in Yauri, Kebbi State as part of the efforts to enhance maritime security in the region.

A high-powered delegation led by Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu visited Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi  on Friday and also inspected the proposed site in Yauri.

A statement made available to Team@orientactualmags.com by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yahaya Sarki noted that Nwatu was directed to visit the state by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.

Welcoming the delegation, Governor Idris described the decision as highly commendable while noting that it is a strategic move by the Navy.

 ‘The mission of the delegation is to facilitate the establishment of a naval base in Yauri in line with the directive of the Chief of Naval Staff. Kebbi has never had a naval base, despite the River Niger traversing its landscape, which necessitates strong maritime security’ the governor noted.

He further highlighted Kebbi’s strategic location, sharing both land and water borders with the Republic of Niger and the Republic of Benin, areas that are currently facing security challenges.

 ‘Though we have maritime police, their numbers are limited. I sincerely commend the Chief of Naval Staff for his foresight. No responsible government treats security lightly. Kebbi State will fully support and facilitate the swift establishment of the base, including the provision of a temporary site and accommodation for immediate operations’ he added .

Rear Admiral Nwatu said the delegation was in Kebbi to convey the goodwill of the Chief of Naval Staff and to strengthen partnership with the state government.

 ‘The Nigerian Navy is expanding maritime security inland. The River Niger is of strategic concern as it is being exploited by criminal elements for the movement of arms and personnel. With the planned naval base in neighbouring Niger State, extending operations to Kebbi will enhance proactive and counter-measures against banditry and other criminal activities’ he said.

He expressed the Nigerian Navy’s appreciation to Governor Nasir Idris for his unwavering support and commitment to strengthening security in the state-Team@orientactualmags.com  Do you have any information you wish to share with us? Do you want us to cover your event or programme? Kindly send SMS to 08035023079,  08059100286, 09094171980 or get in touch via orientactualmag@gmail.com.  Thank you