June 07, (THEWILL) – The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has restated the Federal Government’s commitment to tackle challenges of illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, piracy, illegal fishing, and water trespassing.
A press statement issued on Friday, by Henshaw Ogubike, the Ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, informed that the Minister made the commitment when he highlighted the importance of the Deep Blue Project in protecting the nation’s waterways, at the graduation ceremony of the Maritime Security Unit of the Deep Blue Project in 5 Battalion Nigerian Army, Elele, in Rivers State.
Abubakar, who said the establishment and training of the Maritime Security Unit Forces is a crucial aspect of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, charged the graduating officers to prepare to tackle challenges of illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, piracy, illegal fishing, and water trespassing, among others.
He said he was optimistic that the graduands, having undergone professional combat training, would confidently address these challenges and will enable them ensure peace and economic prosperity of the nation.
The graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone in the actualisation of the Deep Blue Project, aimed at enhancing the security of Nigeria’s maritime domain.
He commended the graduating Maritime Security officers for their successful completion of the training programme, stating that “your dedication and hard work have earned you this achievement, and I am proud to congratulate you on this milestone.”
The Minister also extended his gratitude to his counterpart in the Maritime and Blue Economy for the Ministry’s support and collaboration in establishing the Maritime Security Unit.
“Your Ministry’s commitment to the Deep Blue Project has been instrumental in its success, and I appreciate your unwavering support”, he said
The Minister expressed his appreciation to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), for their technical expertise and resources contributed to the project.
He also acknowledged the facilitators and trainers involved in the program, saying, “Your expertise and guidance have equipped these officers with the necessary skills to excel in their duties. Your contributions to the success of this program are greatly appreciated.”
