Navy to Establish Base in Kebbi

The Nigerian Navy has finalized plans to inaugurate a naval base in Yauri, situated in the Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

A delegation from the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris at Government House, Birnin Kebbi, on Thursday.

During the visit, the delegation’s leader, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, articulated that the initiative forms part of the Nigerian Navy’s efforts to expand its maritime strategy.

This endeavor, he stated, will not only enhance the Navy’s statutory responsibilities in the maritime domain offshore and at sea but also bolster maritime security within the hinterland.

Nwatu remarked that the River Niger is a significant national asset, contributing substantially to Nigeria’s agricultural sector and power generation, as well as serving as a vital source of livelihood for the populace.

“Regrettably, due to insurgency and conflicts within Nigeria, the River Niger, despite its abundant potential, is being exploited by criminal elements to exacerbate insecurity in our nation,” he commented.

“We have observed that the River Niger has become a haven for criminals and a conduit for smuggling arms and other contraband detrimental to our national interests.

“Thus, in addition to the existing base in Niger along the river, the Nigerian Navy has deemed it imperative to expand its presence by establishing a base in Kebbi, thereby ensuring comprehensive coverage of the Niger area.”

Nwatu expressed confidence that with the support of the governor and the people of Kebbi, this initiative would pave the way for enhanced security architecture in Nigeria, particularly concerning safety in the Northwest.

Governor Idris, on his part, lauded the proposal as a commendable and holistic development, especially in light of the security challenges plaguing the southern region of Kebbi.

He expressed gratitude to God Almighty for His guidance and support, which has led to successes in combating the banditry afflicting the area.

“We have never had a naval base in Kebbi. We are thankful that the Chief of the Naval Staff has deemed it appropriate to establish a naval base in Yauri. Yauri, with its River Niger, necessitates robust security measures,” the governor asserted.

“Kebbi is strategically positioned, sharing borders with Niger and the Benin Republic, and with the incursion of Lakurawa, we feel the need for additional security to safeguard the River Niger.

“In the area, we have only marine police, and their numbers are insufficient.”

The governor recalled that Benin Republic was once among the most peaceful nations in Africa; however, it is now grappling with security challenges, as is the Niger Republic, with which Kebbi shares a border.

He assured the delegation that the state government would undertake all necessary measures to facilitate their operations.

Idris noted that the Nigerian Navy’s initiative would benefit the people of Kebbi, assuring that temporary accommodations would be provided for the commencement of operations, pending the construction of permanent facilities.