SUSTAINED COLLABORATION CRITICAL TO RIVERS’ ECONOMIC SECURITY, GOV FUBARA TELLS NAVAL CHIEF

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, says sustained collaboration between the State Government and the Nigerian Navy remains crucial to protecting national assets and ensuring safe waterways.

The governor made the remark on Thursday while receiving the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, on a courtesy visit to Government House, Port Harcourt.

Governor Fubara said the State’s support for the Navy is essential because it lacks the specialised technology and expertise needed to secure its vast maritime environment.

“I don’t have the technology or expertise to do it. It is the responsibility of the Nigerian Navy,” he said.

“And to make that responsibility effective, we must collaborate and provide support where needed.”

Governor Fubara pointed to the strategic position Rivers State occupies as the country’s main crude oil hub, with major distribution lines running through coastal and waterway areas.

He said effective naval operations will help save lives and prevent environmental damage, which directly benefits the State.

“You know how strategic Rivers State is. Most major distribution lines originate here, and they are in the waterways,” he said.

“When anything goes wrong, lives are lost and the ecosystem is destroyed. You are helping us prevent that. So, thank you.”

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with the Navy.

“My promise hasn’t changed. We need to work together to succeed,” he said. “We will continue to do whatever is necessary to ensure you succeed.”

In his remarks, Vice Admiral Abbas emphasised Rivers State’s importance to the nation, noting that it hosts several critical energy assets and key naval training institutions.

He said part of his responsibility is ensuring the safety of these national assets, which Nigeria relies heavily on.

The Chief of Naval Staff, who assumed office on October 30, 2025, explained that his visit was an operational tour to assess the readiness of naval formations.

He expressed appreciation for the State Government’s support, including the recent donation of six gunboats and a school building.

“These will greatly improve our operational capabilities,” he said.

Vice Admiral Abbas appealed for continued support from the State Government to strengthen naval operations in the region.