Nigeria's Rivers State Government, Navy to partner for waterway safety

Nigeria's Rivers State Government will partner with the Navy as well as other security entities to ensure that its waterways are safe.

A collaboration was discussed Wednesday, when Nigerian Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Atiku Abdulkadir visited Gov. Nyesom Wike at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

The governor's deputy, Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, said the state has the political capacity to fight the criminal activities that are taking place in the creeks, coastal areas and adjoining rivers in Rivers state.

“We are ready to eliminate all forms of criminal practices, such as illegal bunker and destruction of our oil installations,” Banigo said.

Banigo added that such a collaboration would create an environment for increased economic activities and opportunities for investors. The united forces would also inspire job growth and development in the region. 

“We want to build Investors’ confidence," Banigo said. "Rivers State Government is creating a secured and favorable environment for investment and development.”

Abdulkadir also asked both the government and the people of Rivers state to help them fight against waterways crime.