By Helen Okechukwu, JKNewsMedia Reporter
RIVERS STATE government has pledged to provide six-gun boats to enhance security along its waterways, specifically targeting sea piracy.
This move aims to curb the recurring threats faced by travelers, particularly in the Bonny Island waterway, which has seen a rise in criminal activities.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara announced the initiative on Wednesday while receiving delegates from the Joint Federal Government Team on Security of National Assets, led by General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff.
Fubara emphasized that some of the boats and ammunition would be allocated to the Navy, strengthening their capacity to maintain safer waterways.
The governor’s decision aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to bolster security around the Niger Delta region, particularly in the fight against oil theft.
Fubara praised the federal government for establishing the Niger Delta Monitoring Team, which has been instrumental in combating illegal oil activities.
Acknowledging the recent attacks on the state’s waterways, Fubara said these acts were deliberate attempts to undermine the ongoing efforts to fight oil theft and destabilize the region’s business environment.
He reaffirmed his commitment to defending the state, stating that the appointment of Henry Wordu was part of a broader plan to secure the state’s future and improve the national economy.
Fubara also commended the professionalism of the security team, expressing confidence in their ability to ensure safety along both waterways and land.
In response, General Christopher Musa thanked the governor for his leadership and the peaceful environment maintained across the state.
He explained that their visit was aimed at evaluating the progress of President Tinubu’s security agenda, particularly regarding oil well protection.
General Musa further announced the upcoming inauguration of two critical committees: the Defence Joint Monitoring Team and the Defence Joint Intelligence Infusion Centre.
These committees will tackle various criminal activities in Rivers State while also contributing to the economic improvement of the oil sector.
