Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has taken a significant step in enhancing maritime security by acquiring 14 gunboats for security agents to combat sea piracy in the region.
The governor inaugurated the patrol gunboats at the Nigerian Naval Ship Base in Ikot Abasi on Friday, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the state’s coastlines and critical economic assets.
Governor Eno stated, “With the 14 gunboats, this programme will also mitigate the activities of pirates and other criminal elements within the coastal communities.
“This, no doubt will boost our blue economy, water transportation within and with neighbouring states, while improving the livelihood of our people living within the coastal communities.”
He commended the collaborative efforts between the Nigerian Navy, other security agencies, and the state government. The waterways operation will be a joint task force led by the Nigerian Navy, with support from sister agencies and locals familiar with the maritime environment, potentially identified through the Ibom Community Watch program.
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Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff, applauded the governor’s vision to harness the potential of the blue economy, describing the procurement of patrol boats as a crucial move to make the maritime environment safe for business. He declared the Akwa Ibom coastline a “no crime zone” and warned criminal elements of a “game over” situation.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, General Koko Essien (retd.), highlighted the vulnerability of the Akwa Ibom coastline due to its extensive stretch and adjoining rivers. He affirmed the government’s commitment to dismantling waterways criminals, ensuring they face the full force of the law.