The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Friday handed over a fully equipped Forward Operating Base (FOB) to the Nigerian Navy in the Ayakoro community of Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State.
The state-of-the-art facility is designed to strengthen the fight against pipeline vandalism, illegal oil refining, and other crimes along the region’s waterways.
The base includes a fully furnished administrative block, an accommodation block, and a 40-man houseboat. It is equipped with two 100KVA generators, a 60KVA solar inverter for the main blocks, and a 30KVA solar inverter for the houseboat. For operations, the facility was handed over with two gunboats (each powered by 200HP Yamaha engines), a new floating jetty, and a Toyota Hilux vehicle.
Speaking at the ceremony, NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku stated the location was strategically chosen as a route frequently used by kidnappers and illegal oil refiners.
”From this junction, there is a creek that leads to Sangana in Southern Ijaw, and if this point is not secured, our safety would be compromised,” Ogbuku said. “With this facility in place, criminal activities through this area will be curtailed.”
Ogbuku emphasized the commission’s partnership with security agencies, noting that development cannot thrive without security. He praised President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the region’s sustainable development, stating, “We will continue to collaborate with the security agencies to ensure sustainable peace that will usher in development.”
The Chief of Naval Staff, represented by Rear Admiral Noel Madugu, Commander of the Joint Task Force (Operation Delta Safe), said the facility would significantly enhance the Navy’s presence and security operations.
”The event we are witnessing today reflects the close collaboration between the NDDC and the Nigerian Navy,” Rear Admiral Madugu said. He described Ayakoro as a strategic community crucial to maritime security and urged residents to support the Navy with intelligence to improve operational efficiency.
Governor Douye Diri, represented by his Security Coordinator, Brig. Gen. Eric Angaye (Rtd), highlighted the Niger Delta’s vital role in the nation’s economy. The Acting Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro, Chief Micah Etebi, added that the project demonstrates the NDDC’s positive impact on lives in the region.
Dignitaries at the event included the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere; Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Aliyu Gaya; and the Obanobhan of Ogbia Kingdom, King Charles Owaba.
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