Navy to Establish Base in Kebbi to Tackle Inland Waterway Crimes
The Nigerian Navy has announced plans to establish a permanent naval base in Yauri, Kebbi State, as part of a broader strategy to enhance internal security and improve maritime surveillance along the River Niger.
The announcement was made on Thursday when a high-level naval delegation, led by Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi.
Rear Admiral Nwatu represented the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.
According to Rear Admiral Nwatu, the decision to extend naval presence to Kebbi is in response to growing security threats along the River Niger. He said the river, though crucial to agriculture, trade, and livelihoods, has increasingly become a corridor for illicit activities.
“River Niger, despite its immense contributions to the economy, is now being exploited by criminal elements for arms smuggling and other illicit trades,” he said.
“We’ve identified Yauri as a strategic location to plug this security gap. The base will complement existing naval infrastructure in Niger State and ensure a stronger presence along the river.”
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In his response, Governor Idris described the Navy’s move as a “timely and strategic intervention,” noting that the southern part of Kebbi has faced mounting threats from trans-border banditry due to its proximity to Niger and Benin Republics.
“We have never had a naval base in Kebbi before, and we are grateful to the Chief of Naval Staff for this forward-thinking initiative,” the governor stated.
“Our marine police are doing their best, but their capacity is limited. A naval presence will greatly boost efforts to secure lives, property, and critical infrastructure.”
Governor Idris also assured the delegation of the state government’s full cooperation, pledging immediate logistical support, including temporary accommodation for naval personnel, while work begins on constructing a permanent base.
The new base, once operational, is expected to bolster the security architecture of the North-West, improve inland maritime policing, and serve as a deterrent against arms trafficking, smuggling, and other illegal activities along the River Niger.
The Navy’s expansion into Yauri aligns with its evolving inland waterway security strategy, which aims to project naval capabilities beyond traditional coastal regions and address internal security threats across Nigeria’s riverine communities.
By PRNigeria
