Rivers State Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), has pledged collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to strengthen maritime security and safeguard national assets critical to economic growth.
The assurance was given during a courtesy visit by participants of the Nigerian Naval Warfare College Course 9, who were on a study tour of Rivers State. The team was received at Government House, Port Harcourt, on Monday.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika, Ibas praised the tour’s theme, “Optimising Technology for Effective Maritime Security Operations,” describing it as timely and essential.
He stressed that leveraging advanced technology was key to protecting the nation’s coastal communities, infrastructure and natural resources.
“We are witnessing a time when threats in the maritime domain—ranging from piracy, smuggling, and illegal fishing to environmental hazards—are becoming increasingly sophisticated. To counter these challenges, we must deploy equally advanced solutions,” he said.
“The integration of modern technology—from satellite surveillance and autonomous systems to AI-powered threat detection and integrated communication networks—is no longer a futuristic ideal but a present-day necessity.”
In a statement issued by Hector Igbikiowubo, Special Adviser on Media to the Rivers State Government, Ibas commended the Naval War College for its strategic focus on innovation in maritime security, saying it reflects a commitment to evolving national defence strategies.
“Rivers State remains a willing partner in this endeavour. We are committed to supporting all federal security agencies operating within our territory and will continue to invest in strategic infrastructure and cooperative frameworks that enhance safety on land and at sea,” the statement read.
He urged the naval officers to use the study tour as a platform to deepen inter-agency collaboration and develop broader strategies for sustained maritime peace and security.
Speaking during the visit, the Commandant of the Nigerian Naval War College, Rear Admiral Akinola Olatunde Olodude, emphasised Rivers State’s vital role in the national economy.
He noted that the state accounts for over 30 per cent of Nigeria’s 853-kilometre coastline, more than 40 per cent of the country’s crude oil output, and around 33 per cent of its GDP and foreign exchange earnings.
“Given these critical assets, transitioning from traditional maritime security methods to optimising technology is imperative for addressing contemporary challenges in Rivers State’s diverse maritime environment,” he said.
(NAN)