Rivers State Government has reaffirmed collaboration with the Nigerian Navy in fighting maritime related crimes in the coastal environments of the State.
The State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, disclosed this when he received the Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie and his entourage, at the Government House Port Harcourt, Friday.
The governor noted that the relationship between the Rivers government and the navy will be sustained to achieve greater results, adding that the complex terrain of the State requires security vigilance to tackle related crimes like piracy and pipeline vandalisation.
“I want to say that our relationship with the Naval Command has been very wonderful. It has to be so, because of the terrain of Rivers State, surrounded by rivers, seas and creeks.
“So, keeping relationship with the Navy is very important. Therefore, your coming on board and this particular relationship that you have come to renew, we can assure you that it is going to spur us to do more in terms of collaboration for the success of both the Navy and the State.”
Governor Fubara emphasised on the protection of national assets and commended the Navy and other security agencies for their prompt response in addressing issues of oil theft and insecurity in the state.
“The major problem that we have here is the issue of vandalisation of pipeline and these issues are in the coastal line where the lines run through the swamps. I can say here proudly that the Navy in conjunction with other Security agencies have always responded very actively.
“In most cases they don’t even need to inform me, it is after they have done the operation that they usually send in their reports. This can only be possible because of the wonderful relationship that we have.
“If the State doesn’t protect her asset through the Security agencies, definitely the State will suffer one way or the other. When the level of production drops, in the course of calculation of returns from the federation allocation, it will also affect our allocation. So it is a win-win thing for everyone.”
He lauded the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas on his appointment and assured the continuous support of Rivers State to the Navy.
Earlier, Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Okehie expressed appreciation to the governor for his steady support for the Navy especially in the provision of logistic supports.
“I wish to express our profound appreciation to you Sir for your steady support of the Nigerian Navy. I was discussing with my Commander here and he said you have given us about six boats, built structures in our Secondary School and so many other things. I want to deeply appreciate you for this steady support.”
Rear Admiral Okehie described Rivers State as key and strategic to Nigeria’s maritime and energy architecture with its vast coast line with regards to the oil and gas infrastructure, big waterways, vibrant commercial activities which requires adequate security.
He pointed out that the Navy aligns with Governor Fubara’s development plans for the State especially in the areas of peace, security and protection of critical infrastructure, stating that the visit provided opportunity to strengthen the existing collaboration between the Navy and Rivers State Government.
The Flag Officer pledged to sustain the detailed patrol to enhance maritime security and deepen joint operations by synergising with other security agencies to ensure that they maintain safety and security in the maritime corridor of the State.
Blessing Ibunge
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