A'Ibom CP Highlights Complex Security Threats to Maritime Sector

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Baba Mohammed Azare, the Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State, said that although the maritime sector is a key engine of economic growth, it confronts a range of serious security challenges such as sea piracy, armed robbery, kidnapping on waterways, illegal oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism, smuggling, human trafficking, environmental offenses, and other transnational organized crime.

He made the remarks during a reception of Rear Admiral M.A. Muye, Commandant of the Naval Warfare College Nigeria, and participants of Naval Warfare Course 10, who were conducting an operational study visit in Akwa Ibom State.

The commissioner emphasized that maritime security is essential for a nation's sustainable socio‑economic development, noting that a country cannot fully exploit its maritime resources under conditions of insecurity.

He added that a safe maritime environment draws investment, safeguards vital national assets, encourages trade, generates jobs, boosts government revenue, and raises the welfare of coastal communities.

Regarding the police force's role in maritime security, Azare described the Command's current initiatives, including intelligence‑driven policing, waterway patrols, safeguarding critical infrastructure, community outreach, crime‑prevention measures, and strong cooperation with other security agencies active in the maritime sector.

He highlighted the need for inter‑agency collaboration to tackle maritime threats, asserting