The Nigerian Navy is set to establish a naval base in Yauri, located in 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 the Government House, Birnin Kebbi, on Thursday.
Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, who led the delegation, said the visit was part of efforts to expand the Nigerian Navy’s maritime strategy. He explained that this expansion goes beyond its statutory responsibility in the offshore maritime domain to also support maritime security within the hinterland.
According to Nwatu, the River Niger is a vital national asset that has contributed significantly to agriculture and power generation, serving as a source of livelihood for many Nigerians.
“Unfortunately, due to insurgency and conflicts in the country, that same River Niger despite its enormous potential is now being exploited by criminal elements to escalate insecurity.
“We have observed that the River Niger has become a convergence point for criminals and a route for smuggling arms and other materials detrimental to national interest,” he stated.
Nwatu noted that in addition to the existing base on the Niger side of the river, the Nigerian Navy deemed it necessary to establish a base in Kebbi to ensure a stronger presence along the River Niger.
He expressed optimism that, with the support of the governor and the people of Kebbi State, the initiative would significantly enhance the country’s security architecture, especially in terms of safety in the Northwest region.
In his response, Governor Idris described the move as a commendable and comprehensive step towards addressing the security challenges facing the southern part of Kebbi State.
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He thanked God for the progress made so far in the fight against banditry in the region and expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Naval Staff for choosing Kebbi as the location for a new naval base.
“We have never had a naval base in Kebbi. We are grateful that the Chief of the Naval Staff considers it worthy to establish one in Yauri. You know, in Yauri, we have the River Niger, which requires strong security presence,” the governor said.
“Kebbi is strategically located as it shares borders with Niger and Benin Republics. Given the recent incursion of criminal elements like the Lakurawa, there is a pressing need for enhanced security on the river. At present, we only have a limited number of marine police officers,” he added.
The governor recalled that Benin Republic used to be one of the most peaceful countries in Africa but is now facing its own security challenges, as is Niger Republic both of which share borders with Kebbi.
He assured the delegation that the state government would do everything possible to create a conducive environment for the naval base to operate.
Governor Idris also promised to provide temporary accommodation for the take-off of operations, pending the construction of a permanent base structure.
