Navy Inaugurates Jetty To Fight Oil Thieves, Maritime Crimes

Nigerian Navy’s Eastern Naval Command (ENC) has expressed its determination to contain maritime criminals operating on the coastal waters of Akwa Ibom, warning sea pirates, oil thieves and other sea criminals to steer clear or be ready to face the superior firepower of the operatives.

Speaking at the inauguration of the security jetty at Uta Ewa, a coastal community of Ikot Abasi local government area of Akwa Ibom State at the weekend, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Donald Okehie, said the setting up of the jetty was a deliberate strategic action to combat security challenges.

LEADERSHIP Weekend gathered that the commissioning was part of Rear Admiral Okehie’s familiarisation visit to units under his command, and was received by the Commander (NNS) Jubilee, Ikot Abasi, Commodore Abubakar Umar, who also provided a briefing on the operational activities of the base.
Rear Admiral Okehie emphasised the critical role of the new facility in enhancing the Navy’s operational capabilities.

“This jetty is essential for maintaining a permanent naval presence in this coastal area. It will enable our personnel to give prompt responses to security threats, enhance our surveillance capabilities, and ensure the safety of sea lines of communication.

“The project, championed by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Jubilee, Ikot Abasi, aligns with the broader vision of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas’ modern and professional naval force.

“The vision prioritises improving operational capacity, enhancing personnel welfare, and engaging in civil-military cooperation to safeguard the nation’s maritime interests,” he said.

Rear Admiral Okehie and his team also conducted an inspection of other key facilities, including the Helms Jetty and formally commissioned a newly constructed welfare shop for the personnel.

The FOC also held an interactive session with the Base’s staff and assured them of the Command’s continued support to enhance their operational effectiveness.