The Nigerian Navy has announced plans to establish a naval base in Yauri, Kebbi State, in a strategic move aimed at boosting maritime and inland waterway security along the River Niger corridor.

This development was confirmed during a high-level visit by a naval delegation led by Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, who represented the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla. The delegation paid a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi before inspecting the proposed site for the base in Yauri.

Governor Idris commended the Navy’s decision, describing it as both timely and strategic, given the rising security concerns in border communities. He emphasized that despite the River Niger traversing Kebbi State, the area has never had a naval presence — a gap he said urgently requires closing.

“Kebbi shares both land and water boundaries with the Republics of Niger and Benin — regions currently grappling with transborder security threats,” the governor noted. “We are fully prepared to support this initiative, including the immediate provision of a temporary operational base and accommodation for naval personnel.”

Rear Admiral Nwatu stated that the visit was to convey the goodwill of the Chief of Naval Staff and advance the directive to expand the Navy’s inland operational reach. He underscored the strategic importance of the River Niger, which he said is increasingly exploited by criminal networks for the transportation of arms and insurgents.

“The Navy is expanding its presence beyond coastal waters to ensure inland water bodies are effectively secured,” Nwatu explained. “The establishment of a base in Yauri complements similar efforts in neighbouring Niger State and will significantly enhance our capacity to combat banditry, arms trafficking, and other cross-border crimes.”

He expressed appreciation to Governor Idris and the Kebbi State Government for their unwavering support and commitment to strengthening national security.