The Nigerian Navy has announced plans to establish a naval base in Yauri, Kebbi State, as part of efforts to enhance security operations along the River Niger and surrounding inland waterways.
A high-level delegation from the office of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday.
Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, who led the delegation, explained that the new base is a strategic move to expand the Nigerian Navy’s inland maritime security operations. He emphasized that while the Navy’s primary responsibility lies offshore, securing critical inland waterways like River Niger has become necessary due to rising security threats.
“River Niger is a vital national asset that supports agriculture, transportation, and power generation. Unfortunately, criminal elements are now exploiting the river for illegal activities such as arms smuggling and banditry,” Rear Admiral Nwatu stated.
He noted that criminal networks have increasingly used River Niger as a smuggling route, which has escalated insecurity across the region. The new naval base in Yauri will complement existing naval operations in Niger State, ensuring a stronger and more coordinated security presence along the river corridor.
Governor Nasir Idris commended the Navy’s decision, describing it as a “timely and strategic intervention” given the security challenges facing Southern Kebbi and Nigeria’s northwest region. He stressed Kebbi’s strategic position, sharing borders with Niger and Benin Republics, which underscores the need for enhanced border security.
“This is a historic development for Kebbi. We’ve never had a naval base in the state. With the presence of River Niger and its vulnerability to criminal activities, this base will significantly strengthen our security architecture,” the governor said.
Governor Idris pledged the state government’s full support, assuring the Navy of temporary accommodation to enable immediate operations while arrangements for permanent facilities are underway.
He also highlighted recent security gains against banditry in the region, attributing the success to increased collaboration between security agencies and the state government.
The establishment of the naval base in Kebbi is seen as a major step in Nigeria’s broader efforts to curb inland waterway crimes and enhance national security, especially in border communities.
