As part of activities to enhance maritime security, combat illicit activities and promote economic growth in the state, the Nigerian Navy has approved the establishment of a Naval operational base in Benue State.

Chief of Naval Transformation, Rear Admiral M.G. Oamen, disclosed this when he led a 4 man committee from the Naval Headquarters to visit Governor Hyacinth Alia at Government House, Makurdi.

Rear Admiral Oaman said securing the Benue State coastal areas will enhance the security of lives and property of Benue people, stating that they were in Benue State to carry out on-the-spot assessment of the general areas and identify a suitable site for the establishment of Operational Base which Governor Alia had earlier requested.

He recall that the Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia recently requested for a Nigerian Navy Type A Operational Base in Makurdi during his visit to the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla in Abuja.

Governor Hyacinth Alia appreciated the prompt response of the Chief of Naval Staff for heeding to his call to establish a Nigerian Navy Type A Operational Base in Makurdi, assuring that Benue State Government is fully committed to ensuring a seamless take off of the project.

The Governor further assured that Benue State Government would
provide basic infrastructure and equipment for the take off of the Operational Base in a short time.