Ogalla visits Alia, says navy will establish special operations base in Benue

Emmanuel Ogalla, the chief of naval staff (CNS), says the federal government has approved the establishment of a naval special operation command unit along the banks of the River Benue.

Ogalla spoke on Tuesday during a visit to Hyacinth Alia, governor of Benue, at the old Banquet Hall in the government house in Makurdi, the state capital.

Ogalla, who inspected the site of the proposed base, said operational planning is underway to ensure smooth execution of the project.

“This aligns with our total spectrum maritime strategy, which extends our responsibilities beyond coastal waters to inland waterways and land-based support,” the naval chief said.

“There can be no security without development, and no development without security.”

He commended Alia for his proactive governance, especially in providing an enabling environment for economic growth and allocating land for the naval project.

The CNS reaffirmed the navy’s commitment to tackling insecurity in the state through strategic collaboration and development-focused security operations.

He also commiserated with the state government over the recent violent attacks that claimed the lives of residents, noting that security and development must work in tandem to achieve national stability.

On his part, the Benue governor said the threat to lives and farmlands in the state is a national crisis that could directly impact the country’s food security.

He thanked the CNS for his swift response to the state’s distress call and also for granting the request for a special unit command, pledging full logistical support to fast-track the project.

He also assured the navy of the state’s continued partnership, including efforts to improve site accessibility and further collaboration on long-term peace building.

“The waterways of Benue, vast and currently unmonitored, have become corridors for attackers. This naval presence is not only necessary but urgent,” Alia said.

The governor had sought the federal government’s intervention following an uptick in gunmen attacks in the state.