Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has reaffirmed the strong collaboration between the State Government and the Nigerian Navy, noting that the partnership has continued to yield significant gains in combating maritime-related offences, including pipeline vandalism across coastal communities.
The governor made this known on Friday, November 21, 2025, while receiving the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Donald Okehie, and his entourage during a courtesy visit to Government House, Port Harcourt.
Governor Fubara said the complex terrain of Rivers State characterised by rivers, creeks and vast coastlines—makes sustained cooperation with the Navy indispensable in addressing crimes such as piracy and oil theft.
“Our relationship with the Naval Command has been very wonderful. It has to be so because of the terrain of Rivers State. Keeping a strong relationship with the Navy is very important. Your visit to renew this partnership will spur us to do more for the success of both the Navy and the State.”
He commended the Navy and other security agencies for their swift and proactive responses to security breaches, especially in curbing pipeline vandalism, stressing that protecting national assets remains a top priority.
“In most cases, they don’t even need to inform me before acting. It is after their operations that reports come in. This shows the excellent relationship we share,” he noted.
Governor Fubara added that oil theft and vandalism directly affect national revenue and, by extension, the state’s allocation. He congratulated the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral I. Abbas, on his appointment and pledged Rivers State’s continued support to the Navy.
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In his remarks, Rear Admiral Okehie expressed appreciation to the governor for the sustained backing the Navy has enjoyed, including the provision of six patrol boats and infrastructural support to its secondary school.
He described Rivers State as a strategic hub in Nigeria’s maritime and energy landscape due to its extensive coastline, waterways, and vital oil and gas infrastructure. According to him, ensuring adequate security in the region is essential to safeguarding national assets.
Rear Admiral Okehie said the Navy fully aligns with the governor’s development agenda in areas of peace, security, and protection of critical infrastructure. He pledged to maintain robust patrols and deepen joint operations with other security agencies to further enhance maritime security within the state’s waterways.
