NDDC Commissions Modern Naval Base in Bayelsa to Combat Oil Theft and Waterway Crimes

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Friday officially handed over a newly constructed and fully equipped Forward Operating Base (FOB) to the Nigerian Navy at Ayakoro community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The state-of-the-art facility is designed to enhance maritime security and strengthen the fight against pipeline vandalism, oil theft, illegal refining, and other criminal activities along the waterways.

The new base features a fully furnished administrative block, accommodation block, and a 40-man houseboat. It is powered by two 100KVA generators and two gunboats equipped with 200HP Yamaha engines each. Additional power support includes a 60KVA solar inverter for the administrative and accommodation blocks, and a 30KVA solar inverter for the houseboat. The facility also comes with a Toyota Hilux operational vehicle and a newly built floating jetty.

In a show of community support, Ayakoro residents donated a parcel of land to the Navy for the construction of a school.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said the location was strategically chosen because it serves as a key route previously exploited by kidnappers, oil bunkerers, and illegal refiners.

Ogbuku emphasized that development in the Niger Delta depends on security and commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to peace and sustainable growth in the region.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply committed to ensuring peace and progress in the Niger Delta. He has directed us to embark on legacy projects that will have lasting impacts, and we can only achieve this in a secure environment,” Ogbuku stated.

He added that the NDDC would continue to partner with security agencies to maintain peace, noting that the new naval base would significantly reduce criminal activities in the area.

The Chief of Naval Staff, represented by the Commander of the Joint Task Force (Operation Delta Safe), Rear Admiral Noel Madugu, described the new facility as a strategic asset that will enhance the Navy’s operational reach in the Niger Delta.

“This project demonstrates strong collaboration between the NDDC and the Nigerian Navy in tackling maritime security challenges,” Madugu said. “The Navy will ensure that this facility is fully utilized to achieve its intended purpose.”

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, represented by Brigadier General Eric Angaye (Rtd), commended the initiative, noting that the Niger Delta’s coastline plays a vital role in Nigeria’s oil and gas economy.

In his remarks, the Acting Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro, Chief Micah Etebi, expressed gratitude to the NDDC, describing the project as a testament to the commission’s commitment to improving lives and ensuring peace in the region.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere; Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Aliyu Gaya; Commander, NNS SOROH, Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami; and the Obanobhan of Ogbia Kingdom, King Charles Owaba, among others.