The Nigerian Navy and the Rivers State Government have pledged to collaborate in protecting lives and vital oil and gas assets in the State.
In addition, Governor Siminalayi Fubara is calling on Nigerians to unite in defeating terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes that now threaten the unity and existence of the country.
The Governor made the appeal when he played host to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, on Thursday at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
In line with the vision for the Navy, the new Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, was in Rivers State to ascertain the operational readiness and effectiveness of the units and formations under his command.
Rivers State, nicknamed ‘Treasure Base of the Nation’, is home to numerous vital national oil and gas assets.
The State alone generates over 40% of the country’s oil revenue, highlighting the significant position of a safe region to the Nigerian economy.
Part of the responsibility of the Navy Chief – an above-water warfare specialist who has also had a stint in anti-piracy operations, will be to tighten security on the waters, crack down on oil theft, illegal bunkering, and piracy on the waterways.
The 25th Chief of the Naval Staff also used the visit to the Government House, Port Harcourt, to thank the Rivers State Government for the numerous supports the Navy has enjoyed over the years.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara assured his guest that Rivers State Government will continue to give the Navy and other security agencies the supports they need to keep the State and country safe.
With the country now overwhelmed by security challenges, Governor Fubara emphasised that Nigerians, now more than ever, need to unite to defeat the evil that’s now threatening the country’s existence.
Editor: Ken Eseni
