The Rivers State Government, in Nigeria’s South-South region, has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing maritime security, protecting national assets, and promoting economic growth through strategic collaboration with security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Navy.
The State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ibas, gave this assurance while hosting participants of the Nigerian Naval Warfare College Course 9, who were on a study tour to Rivers State, at the Government House in Port-Harcourt.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Worika, the Administrator lauded the theme of the study tour, “Optimising Technology for Effective Maritime Security Operations.”
He emphasised that leveraging modern technology is critical to safeguarding national assets, coastal communities, and ensuring sustainable economic development.
“We are witnessing a time when threats in the maritime domain, ranging from piracy, smuggling, and illegal fishing to environmental hazards—are becoming increasingly sophisticated. To counter these challenges, we must deploy equally advanced solutions,” he stated.
He said; “the integration of modern technology from satellite surveillance and autonomous systems to AI-powered threat detection and integrated communication networks is no longer a futuristic ideal but a present-day necessity.”
Vice Admiral Ibas commended the Nigerian Naval War College for prioritising technological innovation in maritime security, underscoring its dedication to advancing national security strategies.
“Rivers State remains a willing partner in this endeavor. We are committed to supporting all federal security agencies operating within our territory and will continue to invest in strategic infrastructure and cooperative frameworks that enhance safety on land and at sea,” Ibas stated.
He urged the participants to ensure that the study tour strengthens collective stakeholder resolve and broadens professional approaches to achieving sustainable maritime security outcomes.
In his remarks, the Commandant of the Nigerian Naval War College, Rear Admiral Akinola Olodude, highlighted Rivers State’s strategic importance to Nigeria’s economy.
He noted that ”the state accounts for 30% of Nigeria’s coastline (approximately 853km), over 40% of the nation’s crude oil output, and 33% of its GDP and foreign exchange earnings.”
“Given these critical assets, transitioning from traditional maritime security methods to optimising technology is imperative for addressing contemporary challenges in Rivers State’s diverse maritime environment,”Rear Admiral Olodude stated.
The study tour underscores the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to fostering operational excellence and technological advancement in maritime security, with Rivers State playing a pivotal role in this national effort.
Mercy Chukwudiebere