Navy to establish base in Kebbi

The Nigerian Navy has announced plans to establish a naval base in Yauri, located in Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State, as part of efforts to enhance maritime security in the hinterland.

A delegation representing the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, disclosed the development during a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday.

Speaking during the visit, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, who led the delegation, said the initiative was in line with the Navy’s strategy to extend its operations beyond offshore and coastal regions to inland waterways such as the River Niger.

He noted that while the River Niger has long served as a valuable national resource supporting agriculture, electricity generation, and livelihoods, it has increasingly become a corridor for criminal activities, including arms smuggling and insurgent movement.

“Criminals are exploiting the River Niger to fuel insecurity in our country.

“We already have a base in Niger State, and establishing another in Kebbi will give us a more comprehensive presence along this critical waterway,” Nwatu stated.

He expressed confidence that with the support of Kebbi State, the new base would significantly improve the region’s security architecture, especially in the Northwest.

Governor Nasir Idris welcomed the decision, describing it as a timely and strategic move in addressing the security challenges, particularly in southern Kebbi.

“We’ve never had a naval base in Kebbi before.

The decision to establish one in Yauri is commendable, especially given the strategic location of the River Niger and our proximity to Niger and Benin Republics,” he said.

The governor noted that the region’s only current waterway security presence was from a small marine police unit, which is insufficient to address emerging threats.

He assured the Navy of the state government’s full support, including immediate provision of temporary accommodation to facilitate the base’s take-off, pending the construction of a permanent facility.

Governor Idris also acknowledged the growing security threats in neighbouring countries, noting that Kebbi’s position makes enhanced security coordination essential for regional stability.