‘Naval base will boost security along Taraba waterways’ – Gov Kefas

Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has said the establishment of a Nigerian Navy base in the state will improve surveillance, deter criminal activities and strengthen security along its waterways.

Kefas stated this on Monday while receiving a delegation from the Naval Headquarters, led by the Chief of Administration, Rear Admiral Jonathan Joseph Nwunuji Mamman, during a courtesy visit to the TY Danjuma House in Jalingo.

The governor commended the Chief of the Naval Staff for prioritising national security and lauded the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to expanding its operational presence in Taraba State.

He disclosed that the Navy had already conducted an assessment of the proposed site, describing the planned base as a timely intervention to safeguard the state’s waterways.

According to him, the Kashimbila Waterway forms part of the boundary between Taraba State and Cameroon, while several inland waterways remain vulnerable to criminal exploitation if left unsecured. He noted that a permanent naval presence would enhance surveillance, prevent criminal activities and improve overall security in the area.

Kefas added that the proposed naval base would also provide opportunities for training local residents to support security operations alongside the Marine Police.

He emphasised that closer collaboration among security agencies remains critical to addressing security challenges in the state.

Earlier, the Chief of Administration at Naval Headquarters, Rear Admiral Jonathan Joseph Nwunuji Mamman, said the delegation was in Taraba to conduct a survey of the Kashimbila Waterway as part of preparations for the establishment of the naval base.

He described the Kashimbila River as strategically important, noting that it hosts the Kashimbila Hydroelectric Power Project, serves communities around the airport and lies along the Nigeria–Cameroon international boundary.

Rear Admiral Mamman warned that unsecured waterways pose significant security risks and said the proposed naval base would enhance security while protecting critical national infrastructure in the area.