The Nigerian Navy has announced plans to set up a new naval base in Yauri, located in the Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
This was made known on Thursday when a team representing the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi.
Leading the delegation, Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu explained that the move is part of the Navy’s broader strategy to strengthen maritime security—not just along Nigeria’s coastlines, but also further inland.
He highlighted the importance of the River Niger, describing it as a major national resource that has long supported agriculture, electricity generation, and local livelihoods. However, he noted that the river has unfortunately also become a hotspot for criminal activity.
“Due to insurgency and rising insecurity, the River Niger, despite all its benefits, is now being exploited by criminal elements. It’s become a route for arms smuggling and other activities that threaten our national security,” Nwatu said.
He added that while there is already a naval base on the Niger side of the river, setting up another one in Kebbi would allow the Navy to have a stronger and more strategic presence along the river’s course.
Rear Admiral Nwatu expressed confidence that, with the support of Governor Idris and the people of Kebbi, the initiative would help tighten security, particularly across the North-West region.
In his response, Governor Idris welcomed the development, calling it a timely and strategic move, especially given the security challenges in Southern Kebbi.
“We’ve never had a naval base in Kebbi before, so this is very significant,” he said. “Yauri, where the base is planned, sits right on the River Niger—an area that clearly requires a stronger security presence.”
The governor noted that Kebbi is in a unique position, sharing borders with both Niger Republic and Benin Republic. He stressed the need for more robust security infrastructure along the river, pointing out that the area currently relies only on a small number of marine police officers.
He also highlighted that both Niger and Benin—once considered relatively stable—are now grappling with their own security issues, which makes cross-border vigilance even more important.
Governor Idris assured the Navy of his full cooperation, promising that the state government would provide all necessary support to ensure the base becomes operational. As a first step, he offered temporary accommodation to enable the Navy to begin operations while plans are made for a permanent site.
“This naval base is not just for the Navy; it’s for the safety and well-being of the people of Kebbi,” he added.
