Navy warns against acts of sabotage on Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure
From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
The Flag Officer Commanding( FOC), Eastern Naval Command ( ENC), Rear Admiral O. K. Oluwagbire has warned economic saboteurs that the Nigerian Navy will not tolerate acts of sabotage on Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.
He said the Nigerian Navy will descend on any saboteurs or criminals attacking national maritime infrastructures.
The FOC added that they are capable of containing any maritime crimes in the three states, Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Rivers States that make up the ENC.
He made this know when he paid a courtesy visit on the Cross River State governor Senator Bassey Otu.
He said the command is making life uncomfortable for kidnappers, oil thefts and bunkering merchants.
“Those that tamper with national economic assets which inundate the three states had better stay away.
“These three maritime states under the ENC host lots of economic assets of national importance.
“These are 15 crude oil terminals, 3 major seaports, 6 national gas plants, 2 refineries as well as various oil fields. There are also very rich fishing environments.
“We cannot tolerate any acts of criminality towards these assets. Our duty is not only to defend the country against external aggression or suppressing insurrection but protect critical economic infrastructure against sabotage”, he stressed.
He commended the governor for his support, assuring that the Navy will continue to provide the needed security in the state.
Governor Bassey Otu in his response assured the Nigeria Navy of support of his administration and synergy in their effort to secure the country’s waterways.
“As a coastal State, we are all partners in the business of safety for our people and we will provide all the needed support.
“No business can thrive with insecurity. We want our waterways secured. Over the years, our waterways have been threatened by external and internal influences, I want to acknowledge the efforts of the Navy in providing the needed safety.
“We will continue to synergize with you, and request for greater synergy to ensure the needed safety for our state”, Governor Otu said.
