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CNS Promises To Sustain Peace In N/Delta
BY SUNDAY EGEDE
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, yesterday, lauded the Nigerian Navy for its critical role in protecting Nigeria’s maritime domain and securing vital oil and gas infrastructure, while describing that arm of the Nigerian military as indispensable to national stability and economic growth.
Governor Oborevwori made the commendation while playing host to the 23rd Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbass, who paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba, as part of his operational tour of naval formations in Delta State.
Welcoming the Naval Chief and his entourage, Governor Oborevwori said the visit demonstrated the Navy’s commitment to strengthening security across the Niger Delta, particularly in Delta State, one of Nigeria’s major oil-producing hubs.
“I welcome you and your entourage to Government House, Asaba. Your coming shows commitment and love for our state. Delta is one of the highest oil-producing states and a major contributor to the nation.
“The Nigerian Navy has been instrumental in shaping our maritime security and protecting our national assets,” the Governor said, just as he praised the Navy’s anti-piracy operations, peacekeeping efforts, and contributions to the state’s internal security architecture.
He also commended officers serving in Delta State for their dedication and coordination with other security agencies which, he said, had helped sustain peace across the state.
“I take security very seriously in Delta State. All security agencies here work together in unity and that is why we enjoy peace. Without peace, development is impossible. Julius Berger, CCECC, and several major contractors would not be able to operate here if not for the peaceful atmosphere,” he said.
The Governor noted that the stability in Delta had made it possible for his administration to push ahead with massive infrastructure projects, including flyovers and highways such as the Ughelli–Asaba expressway, one of the longest in the South-South.
He assured the CNS of the state government’s continued cooperation to enhance security around oil installations and coastal communities.
“Our oil assets are secure because of the good working relationship among all security agencies. If there is a problem in Delta, the entire country will feel it. We are holding the home front here, and we appreciate your commitment,” Oborevwori added.
Earlier, Vice Admiral Abbass, who assumed office on October 30, this year, had said thathe was in Delta to assess the operational readiness of units under his command, identify challenges, and strengthen strategies for protecting critical oil and gas infrastructure.
He added that Delta remained a familiar terrain, having previously served in the Central Naval Command, saying “the purpose of my visit is to keep myself abreast of what is happening in our formations.
“Delta State hosts a lot of the nation’s critical oil and gas infrastructure, and the need to protect them cannot be overemphasized. I am here to see what we are doing right, what needs adjustment, and what challenges exist.”
The CNS expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for the support given to the Navy and other security agencies, noting that improved calm in the state’s waterways had contributed to increased oil production.
“I was at the base and saw new developments that were not there when I left. I thank you for that support. We request your continued collaboration so we can have a smooth sail in our operations.
“I must also note that our waters have remained relatively calm in recent times, and this has contributed significantly to the increase in our national oil production.
“This stability is a testament to the synergy between the Nigerian Navy and the state government, as well as the cooperation of the host communities,” he added. The visit ended with assurances from both parties to deepen cooperation for the security of Delta State, the Niger Delta region, and Nigeria’s national economy.
…Navy ’ll Continue To Sustain Peace In N/Delta –CNS
Meanwhile, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Adm. Idi Abass, has given assurance that the Nigerian Navy will continue to maintain the existing peace in the maritime space.
Abass gave the assurance yesterday in Warri during his maiden familiarisation visit to the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta. Our correspondent reports that the CNS was received by the Commander of the NNS Del ta, Commodore Abdulazeez Zubairu.
Addressing newsmen, Abass said that there had been great improvement in the security situation in the Niger Delta region. He also said that the development had led to an increase in the crude oil production and, by implication, more foreign exchange for the country.
“The Nigerian Navy will continue to do everything possible to maintain the peace we have within our maritime environment to enable legitimate businesses to thrive. Of course, Nigeria relies heavily on crude oil production, particularly in the Niger Delta region, and Delta is home to most of the offshore assets,” he said.
The naval chief also said that the prevailing security challenges in the country required societal approach.
He said that the Nigerian Navy needs the community dwellers, while the communities also need the Navy, so, “it is symbiotic. “We cannot do without the community people and the locals cannot do without the Navy.
“They are the locals, and they know who is who in a particular area. We do not have other options than to work with them because we get information or intelligence from them,” Abass said.
He further said that the Nigerian Navy conducts regular medical rhapsody as well as distribution of palliative to the locals in order to bring them closer.
Earlier, while addressing the personnel, the CNS urged them to always maintain the highest standard of professionalism and discipline in their conducts.
