Gov Otti Approves Proposed Naval Base in Azumini to Secure Planned Seaport

By Ezechukwu Adimoha

The Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, has approved a proposal by the Nigerian Navy for the establishment of a naval base in Azumini to strengthen security around the proposed seaport.

Governor Otti made this known while speaking at the inauguration of infrastructure projects at the Nigerian Navy College of Accounts and Finance, Owerrinta. The projects include newly paved internal roads, a resurfaced parade ground, a reconstructed swimming pool and 10 one-bedroom transit accommodation units for junior officers.

The Governor said feasibility studies for the proposed seaport were yielding positive results, expressing confidence that the project would become a reality. He assured the Navy that his administration was ready to work closely with the service to establish the proposed naval base as part of preparations for the seaport.

Governor Otti also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies and federal institutions operating in the state. He commended the Nigerian Navy for its support for Operation Crush, the state’s inter-agency security initiative aimed at combating kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes.

He explained that the state government had supported infrastructure improvements at the college as part of its commitment to strengthening security and enhancing public service delivery.

In his remarks, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, expressed the Nigerian Navy’s readiness to support the proposed Azumini Seaport through the establishment of a naval base in the area.

Vice Admiral Abbas, who was represented by the Flag Officer Commanding, Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Ebiobowei Zipele, said the proposed base could be considered as part of efforts to strengthen security around the seaport and its associated transport infrastructure.

He noted that the proposed seaport could boost trade, create employment opportunities, attract investment and promote regional economic growth.

In his address, the Commandant of the college, Babatunde Quadri, said the institution contributed to internal security operations in Abia State in collaboration with other military services and law enforcement agencies.

Quadri commended the state government for funding the asphalting of previously unpaved sections of the college’s internal roads and providing equipment and technical personnel for resurfacing the parade ground.

He described the gesture as a demonstration of the state government’s commitment to infrastructure development and stronger collaboration with the Nigerian Navy.

Similarly, the Training Commander of the college, Navy Captain Mohammed Umar, said the Abia State Government had paved about one kilometre of internal roads and provided technical support for resurfacing the parade ground.

He explained that the improved roads, resurfaced parade ground, reconstructed swimming pool and 10 transit accommodation units would enhance training activities, facilitate swimming proficiency tests, improve officers’ welfare and strengthen the college’s operational efficiency.