In a significant step towards improving security along Rivers State's waterways, Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara has commended the swift response of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, for equipping the state’s police force with six operational gunboats. These vessels, designed to enhance the policing of the state's internal waterways, were unveiled during a commissioning ceremony held at the Marine Police Division, Abonnema Wharf, Port Harcourt, on Tuesday.
Representing the governor at the event, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, expressed the state’s gratitude for the immediate action taken by the IGP following concerns raised by the Maritime Union regarding security challenges in the region. The provision of the gunboats, he emphasized, was a testament to the federal government’s commitment to addressing the security needs of the Niger Delta and ensuring the protection of its vital maritime routes.
"On behalf of the Government and the people of Rivers State, we extend our deepest appreciation to the IGP and to His Excellency, Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for their dedication to securing our state,” said Dr. Danagogo. “This initiative aligns with the security priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA), which places a strong emphasis on ensuring the safety of lives and property as a cornerstone of sustainable development."
Governor Fubara, through his representative, reaffirmed his administration's commitment to working closely with security agencies to maintain peace and order in Rivers State. “Security is the bedrock of any development. Without it, efforts to build and advance our state cannot succeed. This government will continue to prioritize security, working hand in hand with the police and other agencies to achieve our shared goal of a peaceful and prosperous Rivers State."
The governor assured the police force of the state's unwavering support in their efforts to combat crime, pledging that the government would continue to provide all necessary assistance to enhance their operational capacity. “Our only demand from you is that you remain focused on your mission – ensuring peace and security – and to carry out your duties with integrity and dedication to the law, humanity, and God,” he added.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, was represented at the event by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Department of Operations, Muhammed Ali. In his remarks, DIG Ali noted that the gunboats were specifically designed to strengthen the state’s capacity to police its waterways and prevent criminal activities such as piracy, illegal bunkering, and kidnapping along the Niger Delta’s creeks and rivers.
“These vessels will enhance our ability to respond swiftly to maritime crimes and to apprehend and prosecute offenders. I urge all stakeholders and citizens to continue to support the Nigerian Police Force in our collective fight against crime. Security is a shared responsibility, and through unity, vigilance, and collaboration, we can ensure that Rivers State and the Niger Delta remain secure and prosperous,” DIG Ali stated.
He further charged the state’s maritime police officers with the responsibility of ensuring that the gunboats are used effectively to carry out their duties and maintained properly to guarantee their longevity. “These boats are a critical asset in our mission to secure the waterways. It is essential that they are maintained regularly to ensure lasting performance and continued operational success," he stressed.
The event marked a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to combat the rising tide of insecurity in its waterways, which has been a source of concern for both the local government and the federal authorities. With Rivers State serving as a hub of oil and gas activities and a vital maritime corridor, ensuring the safety of its waterways is crucial for economic stability and growth.
