In a bold move to tackle insecurity and promote economic growth, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has pledged to donate six gunboats to the Nigerian Navy to enhance the fight against illegal bunkering and sea piracy in the state. This commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, to Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
Governor Fubara emphasized his administration’s determination to deliver critical projects and good governance, despite attempts by saboteurs to disrupt his efforts. He expressed delight in the success of the federal government’s initiatives to curb oil theft and illegal refining of crude oil in the region, particularly the constitution of the Niger Delta Monitoring Team.
Notably, the governor assured General Musa of his administration’s support for the Joint Federal Government Team on Security of National Assets, stating that “we will give all the necessary support to the committee to make sure that they succeed.” He reiterated his resolve to ensure that everything goes well by providing the needed state government support that will contribute to increasing crude oil production.
Governor Fubara also explained the drastic decision to acquire six gunboats to curb incidents of piracy at some sea routes in the state. He stated that the gunboats would be handed over to the Navy to cover areas of interest, particularly around Bonny Local Government Area, where kidnapping and piracy have become prevalent.
In his remarks, General Musa appreciated Governor Fubara’s leadership style, which has created an enabling environment for peace and security in the state. He commended the governor for his support to the Armed Forces and urged him to continue showing leadership in sustaining peace and advancing the development of Rivers State.
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It is worth noting that the Chief of Defence Staff also explained that his visit was two-fold: to assess the level of implementation of directives towards achieving the mandate of President Ahmed Bola Tinubui in securing oil-producing areas and ensuring that crude oil production increases, and to inaugurate the Defence Joint Monitoring Team and the Defence Joint Intelligence Infusion Centre.
It bears mentioning that the donation of gunboats is a significant step towards enhancing security in the state’s waterways and combating illegal activities that hinder economic growth. For those close to the matter, Governor Fubara’s commitment to collaborating with the federal government and security agencies is seen as a resolution to ensure the prosperity of Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
