The Nigerian Navy on Friday inaugurated a 96 Brick unit housing barracks for its officers and ratings at NNS Lugard, located at Banda, near Lokoja in Kogi state.
Kogi State Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello who was the Special Guest of Honour at the commissioning, of the Barracks established to ensure adequate security of the water ways in the confluence state also inaugurated a 1.83km road and other facilities in the new Naval base.
In his keynote address, Governor Bello expressed his joy to be a part of the official commissioning after almost a decade of its establishment. saying his dedication to the cause was because the establishment of the Naval base was key to his administration which has as its priorities security and safety of the people of the state.
While congratulating The Governor Congratulated the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas and other senior officers of the Navy both serving and retired for bringing to reality the project.
Governor Bello assured the Navy that their decision to locate the base in the State would not be regretted as he looked forward to other developments like primary and secondary schools, hospitals, ultra modern markets that would take place in the nearest future.
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He thanked the Navy for their doggedness and synergy with other security agencies which he noted has improved security and safety of lives and properties in the state.
While pledging his continued support to the Navy and other security agencies in the state, the governor charged them to redouble their efforts in combating crimes and criminality in the state.
In his remarks, Chief of the Navy Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas disclosed that the event was significant to the Navy in adequately discharging its roles as the base would assist in employing effectively its resources and man power.
Ibas pointed out that the Navy Barracks in Banda would house both operational and administrative activities including barracks, schools, hospitals and residence for Naval staffs and civilians.
He commended Kogi State Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello for the continued support given to the Navy and his continued commitment in ensuring the security and safety of lives and properties in the State.
The CNS also thanked the people of the state, particularly Banda which is the host community of the Naval base for their cooperation and accommodation.
He pointed out that the dredging on Rivers Niger and Benue by the Federal Government neccessitated the establishment of the Naval base to ensure adequate security of the waterways in the area.
Present at the occasion were representatives from ministry of works and Housing, Ministry of defence, Senate Committee chairman on Navy, top Naval officers and top kogi state government officials.
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