The Rivers State Government, under Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has handed over six state-of-the-art surveillance gunboats to the Nigerian Navy to bolster the security of oil installations and combat sea piracy in the state’s waterways. The governor emphasized the critical role of the Navy in safeguarding the national economy, which heavily relies on crude oil production, by tackling oil theft, illegal bunkering, and pipeline vandalism.
Speaking at the handover ceremony held at NNS Pathfinder in Rumuolumeni, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Governor Fubara called on the Navy to deploy the gunboats effectively to intensify maritime surveillance and make waterways unsafe for criminal activities.
Commitment to Security and Economic Growth
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in their fight against crime in the Niger Delta. He noted, “This government will continue to support the Nigerian Navy. As a member of the Committee on Oil Theft and Pipeline Vandalization in the Governor’s Forum, I am committed to curbing these crimes. Donating these gunboats is a testament to that commitment.”
In addition to the gunboats, the state government also handed over three newly constructed bungalows to serve as accommodation for senior naval officers and personnel. Governor Fubara highlighted that the move is part of his administration’s broader effort to ensure a secure environment for citizens and foster economic stability.
Navy Commends Rivers State Government
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, who received the donations, lauded the Rivers State Government for its unwavering support. He described the partnership as a demonstration of the governor’s dedication to strengthening the Navy’s operational capacity.
“These six Abitto gunboats are precisely the kind of assets we need to penetrate the creeks and carry out our policing functions effectively,” said Vice Admiral Ogalla. He also acknowledged the provision of officers’ quarters as a morale booster for naval personnel.
Enhanced Security for Maritime Domain
The donated gunboats, equipped with 400-horsepower engines, are designed to navigate the challenging terrain of Rivers State and will enhance the Navy’s capacity to combat maritime crimes. Governor Fubara expressed optimism that the initiative would address ongoing issues such as piracy and kidnapping, particularly on the Bonny and Kalabari waterways.
Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, Commander of NNS Pathfinder, also praised the government’s contributions, noting that the facilities and equipment would significantly improve operational capabilities and maritime safety.
Partnership for Peace and Progress
Dr. Tammy Danagogo, Secretary to the State Government, described the gesture as part of Governor Fubara’s comprehensive support for security agencies to safeguard lives and property. Representatives from Abitto Global Services, the builders of the gunboats, commended the trust placed in them to deliver equipment suited to the state’s unique security challenges.
The donation underscores the Rivers State Government’s commitment to securing its waterways, fostering economic growth, and supporting the Nigerian Navy in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
