Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustained collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to curb maritime-related crimes, including pipeline vandalism, piracy, and oil theft across Rivers State.
The governor made the remark on Friday during a courtesy visit by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Donald Okehie, at Government House, Port Harcourt.
Fubara noted that the partnership has recorded significant gains, particularly in protecting vital oil and gas infrastructure located in the state’s coastal and swampy terrains. He said the Navy’s prompt response to security breaches has reinforced the government’s confidence in the collaboration.
“Our relationship with the Naval Command has been very wonderful, and it has to be so because of the terrain of Rivers State—surrounded by rivers, seas, and creeks,” he said. “This renewed relationship will spur us to do more in ensuring the success of both the Navy and the State.”
The governor commended the Navy and other security agencies for their swift interventions in combating pipeline vandalism, emphasizing that safeguarding national assets directly affects the state’s economic fortunes.
“When production drops due to vandalism, our revenue from federal allocation also suffers. So, it is a win-win situation for everyone when we protect these assets,” he stated.
Fubara congratulated the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral I. Abbas, on his appointment and pledged continuous support for naval operations in the state.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral Okehie expressed appreciation for the governor’s consistent support, noting the state’s contributions to naval logistics, including the provision of patrol boats and infrastructural assistance.
He described Rivers State as a strategic hub for Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors, stressing the importance of sustained security across its waterways.
The FOC pledged to deepen joint operations and maintain detailed patrols to enhance maritime safety and protect critical infrastructure within the state’s maritime corridor.
