Gbenga Daniel Leads Senate Committee On Comprehensive Naval Review In Rivers

The Senate Committee on Navy, under the able leadership of Senator Otunba Engr. Gbenga Daniel, has concluded a comprehensive three-day oversight visit to key naval formations in Rivers State, reaffirming the legislature’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s maritime security architecture.

The visit, which spanned July 23rd to 25th, 2025, focused on assessing the operational capacity, welfare infrastructure, and training institutions of the Nigerian Navy in a region central to the nation’s economic lifeline and maritime interests.

On arrival at the Port Harcourt International Airport, the committee, which included Senators Khalid Ibrahim, Patrick Ndubueze, Cyril Fasuyi, and Tony Nwoye, was received by the Commander of NNS Pathfinder, Commodore CN Aniaku. The delegation received in-depth briefings on naval operations, particularly the fight against crude oil theft, piracy, and illegal maritime activities in the Niger Delta.

The committee acknowledged the Navy’s achievements through initiatives like Operation Delta Sanity II, which has led to the destruction of over 103 illegal refinery sites and the arrest of 34 suspects, with large volumes of stolen crude and refined products recovered.

Their next stop was Navy Shipyard Ltd., headed by Rear Admiral EE Ebe, which showcased the Navy’s growing local capacity for shipbuilding and maintenance, key to sustaining fleet readiness and reducing external dependence.

The visit also spotlighted the Navy’s societal contributions through institutions like the Nigerian Navy Secondary School and Naval Medical Centre in Borokiri. Senator Daniel praised their outreach efforts, especially the 2025 Navy Week medical intervention that benefited over 1,500 residents, assuring legislative backing for their continuity.

Day two began with a tour of the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) in Ebubu-Eleme, where the committee interacted with Rear Admirals R.O. Obeya and H.S. Zego. The visit extended to the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School (NNBTS) in Onne, led by Rear Admiral V.D. Choji, where lawmakers were taken on an inspection of training facilities and infrastructure.

A symbolic highlight was the sea voyage to Bonny Island aboard NNS Badagry, culminating in a visit to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny. Navy Capt. Emmanuel Fingesi briefed the delegation on the strategic importance of the base, which plays a vital role in patrolling one of Nigeria’s most economically sensitive maritime corridors.

On the final day, the Commandant of the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic School, Capt. OS Giwa, led a presentation detailing the school’s capacity in maritime data collection and cartography, critical for national and regional security.

Senator Daniel, in several interactions, expressed admiration for the Navy’s resilience despite financial constraints, aging infrastructure, and operational demands. He assured officers and men of the committee’s resolve to prioritize their needs in future appropriations and policy interventions.

Notably, the visit emphasized the urgent need for enhanced budgetary support, modern surveillance systems, and infrastructure upgrades to enable the Navy to sustain its gains, especially its contribution to Nigeria’s continued “zero-piracy” status as recognized by the International Maritime Bureau.

The Rivers State Government also reiterated its commitment to supporting military efforts through inter-agency collaboration and technological innovation.

The successful oversight visit, driven by the Senate’s active engagement, marks a pivotal step in aligning legislative intent with national security priorities. Insights from the visit are expected to shape more informed decisions that will empower the Navy to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain and safeguard its economic interests.

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By Folake Sokoya