From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Nigerian Navy has established a Special Operations Command in Makurdi, Benue State, to curb banditry and insecurity in the Middle Belt region, complementing efforts of other security agencies.
Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, Chief of Policy and Plans, announced this during a press briefing in Abuja for the Navy’s 69th Anniversary Celebrations.
Dewu explained, “The establishment of the operational command was in line with navy’s Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy, which delineates its areas of operations from Back Waters through the Exclusive Economic Zone, up to the Out of Area and Land Based Operations.”
The command, located on the North Bank of the River Benue, includes Navy Marines, Special Boat Service (SBS), and Blue Sea Operations personnel.
“That is why we needed to get special ratings of personnel, or the Navy Marines, which we intend to establish in Makurdi that will be operating not just at sea, but to operate in other terrains, which is the land,” Dewu said.
The Navy also acquired three patrol vessels—NNS Shere, NNS Faro, and NNS Ikogosi—and three Agusta Westland 109 Trekker helicopters, enhancing maritime and air operations.