The Nigerian Navy has announced plans to establish a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Bakassi, Cross River State, aimed at boosting naval operations and enhancing the response time to maritime crimes in the area.
Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, made this disclosure during a meeting with Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, at Naval Headquarters in Abuja. Admiral Ogalla highlighted the strategic importance of Cross River as a coastal state, reiterating the Navy’s commitment to protecting the nation’s waterways and maritime environment.
“The Nigerian Navy will reappraise its operations and establish a Forward Operating Base around Bakassi Island to improve its response time to maritime challenges,” said Ogalla. He added that Cross River, especially Calabar, is a key location for naval operations due to its coastal position and potential to contribute to Nigeria’s blue economy.
Ogalla emphasized the need for secure inland waterways and road networks, which are critical for the transportation corridor within the region. He also highlighted the state’s potential as a major seaport gateway to the eastern part of the country and as a strategic tourism destination.
“We realize that these developments cannot be left solely to the state government. This is why the Navy is stepping in to provide security and conduct hydrographic surveys to ensure safe waters,” he explained. He confirmed that the Navy will expedite plans to establish the Bakassi FOB to complement existing naval infrastructure, including the NNS Victory base in Calabar.
Governor Otu, in his remarks, stressed the importance of a naval presence in Bakassi, noting that parts of the region are still under Nigerian control, despite the partial secession of Bakassi to Cameroon. He called for the deployment of naval vessels and advocated for the establishment of a deep seaport to spur economic development in the region.
“Though parts of Bakassi were ceded to Cameroon, Nigeria still controls three islands, and it is essential for the Navy to have a stronger presence there. The Bakassi seaport is vital to boosting our maritime activities,” Otu said.
Governor Otu also highlighted the military presence on the Cameroonian side of Bakassi, contrasting it with the limited Nigerian presence. He urged the Navy to enhance security efforts in the area to protect Nigeria’s oil assets and maritime borders.
The establishment of the FOB in Bakassi is expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s maritime security and bolster economic activities in the region.
