THE Nigerian Navy has announced plans to establish a new base in Yauri, located in Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State, to boost maritime security and tackle rising criminal activity along the River Niger.
Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, who led a delegation on behalf of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, disclosed this yesterday during a courtesy visit to Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi.
Nwatu explained that the move is part of the Navy’s broader strategy to strengthen inland maritime operations and secure key waterways in the country.
He described the River Niger as a national asset critical to agriculture, power generation, and livelihoods—but one that has also been exploited by criminal networks for smuggling arms and fueling insecurity.
“Despite its many benefits, the River Niger has become a corridor for criminal elements,” he said. “The Navy already maintains a presence on the Niger side of the river, but it has become necessary to extend operations to Kebbi for full coverage and better security control.”
Governor Idris welcomed the development, calling it a timely and strategic intervention given the rising security threats in the southern parts of Kebbi.
He noted that Kebbi shares borders with both Niger Republic and Benin Republic, making it a high-priority region for enhanced security measures.
“We’ve never had a naval base in Kebbi, and this move will greatly improve our defense framework,” the governor said. “Yauri, with the River Niger flowing through it, requires robust security infrastructure, especially as marine police presence in the area is limited.”
He pledged full support from the state government, including the provision of temporary accommodations for naval personnel while permanent facilities are being developed.
Governor Idris also emphasized that the establishment of the base would contribute to regional peace and help secure border communities facing similar threats from neighboring countries.