Nigerian Navy to Establish New Base in Kebbi to Secure River Niger and Northwest Corridor

In a bid to reinforce security along the River Niger and across Nigeria’s Northwestern corridor, the Nigerian Navy has announced plans to establish a naval facility in Yauri, located in Kebbi State’s Yauri Local Government Area.

The development was disclosed during a courtesy visit to Governor Nasir Idris in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday by a delegation led by Rear Admiral Patrick Nwatu, representing Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

Rear Admiral Nwatu explained that this new initiative is part of a wider maritime security strategy that now extends beyond Nigeria’s coastline to include inland waterways such as the River Niger.

“The River Niger, while a national asset supporting agriculture and energy, is increasingly being exploited by criminal elements for smuggling arms and other illicit activities,” Nwatu said.

He added that the naval presence in Kebbi will complement existing installations particularly in neighboring Niger State, by closing security gaps and bolstering surveillance across key inland routes.

Governor Nasir Idris hailed the plan as both timely and strategic, given the escalating insecurity along the River Niger and the limited capacity of local marine police.

“We have never had a naval base in Kebbi. This development is commendable, especially with the need to secure River Niger,” he said.

The governor also noted Kebbi’s border with the Republics of Niger and Benin as an added justification for the new base, citing cross-border criminal activity as a growing concern.

Governor Idris assured the naval delegation of the state’s commitment to the project, including the provision of temporary accommodations for personnel until permanent facilities are completed.

The new naval facility is expected to enhance internal waterway patrols, discourage arms smuggling, and support national efforts to tackle insecurity in Nigeria’s northern region.