Navy reaffirms commitment to protect nation’s waterways

The Nigerian Navy has reassured that the service would continue to protect the nation’s waterways against any form of criminal activities.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete-Ibas, gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja, when the House of Representatives Committee on Navy, visited the Naval Headquarter on oversight functions.

Rep. Abdussamad Dasuki, chairman of the committee, who spoke, commended the Navy for their efforts at tackling the security challenges in the maritime environment.

Dasuki said that the importance of the Navy was evident when one considers the strategic importance of the Gulf of Guinea and the critical infrastructure located in the area.

According to him, the present situation in the maritime domain called for a stronger maritime policing architecture, spearheaded by the Navy to effectively combat all forms of maritime crimes.

``The situation in the Niger Delta area and the increasing reports of piracy attacks in the Gulf of Guinea deserves special attention,’’ he said.

He urged the Federal Government to consider the presentation of a Maritime Security Supplementary Appropriation Bill.

According to Dasuki, this will enable the Federal Government to immediately purchase equipment for the Navy to tackle the security challenges in the Niger Delta region and the Gulf of Guinea.

``We shall carefully take note of your present challenges and suggestions on how we can support your efforts in carrying out your responsibilities,’’ he added.