Our Correspondent
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has on Friday restated Government’s commitment to tackle the challenges facing the nation such as illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, piracy, illegal fishing, and water trespassing, among others.
He stated this at the graduation ceremony of the Maritime Security Unit of the Deep Blue Project in 5 Battalion Nigerian Army, Elele, Rivers State which was made available to newsmen in a press statement in Abuja by Henshaw Ogubike, the Director Information and Public Relations.
The Minister highlighted the importance of the Deep Blue Project in protecting the nation’s waterways, noting that the establishment and training of the Maritime Security Unit Forces is a crucial aspect of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Badaru charged the graduating officers to prepare to tackle challenges such as illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, piracy, illegal fishing, and water trespassing, among others.
He said he was optimistic that the graduands, having undergone professional combat training, would confidently address these challenges and will enable them ensure peace and economic prosperity of the nation.
Badaru commended the graduating Maritime Security officers for their successful completion of the training program.
The Minister also extended his gratitude to the Minister of Maritime and Blue Economy for the Ministry’s support and collaboration in establishing the Maritime Security Unit.
He expressed his appreciation to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for their technical expertise and resources contributed to the project and acknowledged the facilitators and trainers involved in the program.
“The graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone in the actualization of the Deep Blue Project, aimed at enhancing the security of Nigeria’s maritime domain.
“Your dedication and hard work have earned you this achievement, and I am proud to congratulate you on this milestone.
“Your Ministry’s commitment to the Deep Blue Project has been instrumental in its success, and I appreciate your unwavering support.
“Your expertise and guidance have equipped these officers with the necessary skills to excel in their duties. Your contributions to the success of this program are greatly appreciated” he said.
