Disturbed by the continuous threat posed by sea pirates and other criminals operating in the Niger Delta, Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom has pledged more operational support to the Nigerian Navy.
The Governor who made this know on Monday when the Chief of Naval staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas visited him at the Government house in Uyo, said that he has not renege on his earlier promise of providing two gun boats that would assist the Nigerian Navy in patrolling and keep the nation’s waters safe.
He commended the Nigerian Navy for their patriotic zeal and role at strengthening national security through ceaseless patrol of the coastal areas.
Udom said that in the face of many security challenges facing the state Nigerian Navy, NNS Jubilee at Ikot Abasi has been playing a critical role, especially in the fight against bunkering and oil thieves.
He pointed out that Akwa Ibom with 129 km of coaster waters needs the Navy especially as they have played major role at checking the activities of pirates.
He noted that he want more cordial relationship with the Nigerian Navy especially now that the Akwa Ibom state is to become the hub of the oil and gas industry when the Ibaka deep sea port becomes operational.
“Our administration will continue to support and ensure strong partnership with the navy in their quest to combat maritime crimes and ensure safety on our coastal areas,” Udom added.
Earlier in his address the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas commended the state Governor for the visible development he has brought to Akwa Ibom.
He said that the Nigerian Navy would sustain the current security patrol on Akwa Ibom water ways to curtail criminality and oil theft.
The Chief of Naval Staff thanked the Governor for his support especially the recent donation of the state technical college at Ekparakwa in Oruk Anam local Government area of the state to the Navy.
He hinted that the school with its expanse of land and being the biggest property ever donated to the navy might be considered a campus of Navy University.
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