Pictorial: 'Rivers Is Ready!' - Ibas Assures Navy of Strong Partnership in Maritime Security

Rivers State has declared itself a “willing partner” in Nigeria’s push for stronger maritime security and economic stability.

Speaking during a visit by the Nigerian Naval Warfare College Course 9 participants to the Government House, the Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, restated the state’s commitment to working closely with security agencies—especially the Nigerian Navy—to protect the nation’s vast maritime resources.

Represented by Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, Secretary to the State Government, Ibas welcomed the naval delegation and praised the theme of their study tour, “Optimizing Technology for Effective Maritime Security Operations.” He stressed that high-tech tools such as satellite tracking, artificial intelligence, and automated surveillance are now essential for combating piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling, and other threats on Nigerian waters.

“We are witnessing a time when threats in the maritime domain are becoming increasingly sophisticated. To counter these challenges, we must deploy equally advanced solutions,” he said. “Today’s threats are not only bolder—they are smarter. To stop them, we must be smarter too,” Ibas stressed that tools like satellite monitoring, AI threat detection, and smart surveillance are no longer optional, but urgent.

The Administrator emphasized that Rivers State will not relent in supporting federal agencies, promising continued investments in infrastructure and partnerships that enhance both land and sea safety.

“Rivers State will never be a weak link in this chain, We are already investing in infrastructure and we are fully committed to working with the Navy and other federal agencies to make our waters safe for commerce and our people,” Ibas declared.

“Rivers remains your willing partner in this endeavor,” he declared. “We’ll continue to support security operations that protect our economy and people.”

Also speaking at the event, Commandant of the Nigerian Naval War College, Rear Admiral Akinola Olatunde Olodude, described Rivers as “strategically indispensable.” He revealed that the state controls 30% of Nigeria’s coastline, produces over 40% of the country’s crude oil, and contributes 33% to its GDP and foreign exchange.