Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has pledged support for the Nigerian Navy to tackle criminality in the state, especially on the waterways.
Dickson made the pledge during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, to his office in Yenagoa on Monday.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, retired Rear Adm. Gborigbiogha Jonah, said that such support was necessary to ensure that the communities were secured and safer.
He decried the security challenges facing the state due to the terrain, describing it as worrisome.
“Bayelsa is facing more security challenges as days go on. I want to say that it is necessary we continue to give our maximum support to the activities of the navy in the state.
“I, therefore, urge the men in white (the navy) to establish more mobile stations in the state, especially in the coastal communities because as we all know, Bayelsa is more riverine than any other state in the country.
“I commend you on the good work you have been doing in our state; I must assure you that the government of Bayelsa State will continue to work with you for a more secure environment,’’ Dickson said.
Earlier, the naval chief said that the visit was to inspect the naval base as part of the command’s annual events.
Ibas explained that the inspection was to evaluate the operational base of the force and set plans for improvement on maritime operations.
“The navy for five years in Bayelsa has made tremendous improvement on both the land and maritime sectors; we have built mobile stations which have been helping us to reach out to the communities.
“Our major concern is about the security situation in the state; I must appeal to the government while providing the needed support that the people in the state should also know that development can only exist in a secure environment.
“We commend the government for being supportive; we thank them for providing gun boats and lands, among others,” he said.
