The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the Nigerian Navy for its contributions towards securing the waterways in the state, stating that the efforts have yielded positive results.

The governor noted that the state has witnessed relative calm on the waterways recently, applauding the Navy and the state government for this achievement.

Fubara said that the collaboration between the Navy and the state government was key to achieving this milestone and stressed the need for continued partnerships.

Excited by the development, Governor Fubara pledged the state government’s support for the training college to produce outstanding officers who will contribute to Nigeria’s progress.

“As a state, we want to assure you that we recognise the Navy as one of the organisations that have contributed to the peace we enjoy in the state, and we are willing to do whatever will support this command,” said Fubara.

The governor made this statement during the end-of-year dinner organised for officers and men of the Headquarters Naval Training Command, Ebubu Eleme, in Rivers State yesterday.

Represented by the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Israel Ngbuelo, the governor also commended the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Istafanus Albara, for his achievements in the school.

He assured the FOC of the state government’s commitment to supporting and further developing the college.

“His Excellency has asked me to inform you that he is not unaware of your efforts in developing this college and to assure you that he is willing to do whatever is within the reach of the state to contribute to the further development of this institution,” Ngbuelo said on behalf of the governor.

The governor further praised the command for fostering harmonious relationships with its host community and the civilian population.

Earlier, the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Albara, commended Governor Fubara for his support towards the successful relocation of the college from Lagos to Rivers State in May this year.

He explained that the dinner was organised to appreciate the officers and their commitment to serving the command and the country throughout 2024.

“This gathering, being the first year in Ebubu, is an opportunity for us to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Naval Training Command as well as the officers and ratings for their untiring dedication to service over the past year,” Albara said.

While commending the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, for his commitment to repositioning the Naval Training Command, Albara noted that within the period, the Command had constructed extra classroom blocks, additional accommodation spaces, a new parade ground, and completed the relocation of the Naval Training College, Onne, to the Naval Training Command Complex in Ebubu.

The FOC urged officers and ratings of the command to prepare for greater tasks as the new year approaches.