Blue Economy: Gov Eno Tasks Navy To Rid Waterways Of Maritime Crimes

Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has made a case for continuous surveillance of Nigeria’s waterways to combat insecurity, protect maritime economic activities and safeguard coastal communities.

LEADERSHIP gathered that sea pirates in the Gulf of Guinea region have combined with other criminals involved on cross-border fishing from neighbouring countries, crude oil theft and illegal migration, to make Akwa Ibom’s coastlines unsafe for legitimate businesses.

Speaking to participants of the Naval Warfare Course 10 during the ongoing operational study tour of the state, the governor stressed the importance of security collaboration between the state government and the Nigerian Navy to enhance the administration’s blue economy drive.

Represented by the deputy governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, he noted that Akwa Ibom’s extensive coastline and maritime borders with Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea require sustained security efforts to keep the waterways safe.

Governor Eno commended the Nigerian Navy for its role in securing the maritime domain and protecting legitimate waterway users, emphasising the need for stronger surveillance to deter sea piracy, kidnapping, and other crimes.

“Our waterways should be inaccessible to criminal elements. Sustained surveillance and inter-agency collaboration are essential to ensuring safety and economic activity,” he said.

The Governor highlighted his administration’s support for security agencies, including the procurement of 14 patrol gunboats to strengthen maritime operations, the donation of operational vehicles to the Nigeria Police Force and the approval of ten more to enhance policing and rapid response.

He further mentioned that the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways currently works with the Ibom Community Watch to improve intelligence gathering and coordination, adding that preparations have been made for future profiling of village youth leaders for possible integration into the security framework.

While describing Akwa Ibom as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful States, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to proactive security measures. He advocated the use of modern technology, including drones, to strengthen maritime surveillance and address emerging threats.

The Governor encouraged the Naval Warfare Course participants to apply their training to national security efforts and use their visit to learn more about Akwa Ibom’s development and cultural heritage.

The Commandant of the Naval War College and Team Leader, Rear Admiral Mohamed Muye, said the visit was part of the programme’s practical component, aimed at exposing participants to contemporary national security challenges through operational-level engagements.

He commended Governor Eno for fostering a cordial relationship with the Nigerian Navy and his commitment to maritime security, as well as sustained support extended to NNS JUBILEE, Ikot Abasi local government area, through strategic interventions, including the provision of land for the expansion of naval facilities and other initiatives that have strengthened naval operations in the State.

Rear Admiral Muye explained that this year’s study theme, “Maritime Security and Socio-Economic Development: Akwa Ibom State in Perspective,” reflects the State’s strategic importance as a maritime hub, host of critical oil and gas infrastructure, and a key player in Nigeria’s blue economy.

The Commandant also lauded the Ibom Deep Seaport project and other maritime initiatives of the administration, describing them as transformational projects capable of positioning Akwa Ibom as a major maritime and industrial gateway in the Gulf of Guinea.

He disclosed that the study tour would assess the effectiveness of maritime security operations in the State and provide recommendations to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and enhance maritime security for sustainable socio-economic development.